Autumn foliage in Korea generally begins in the mountainous areas of Gangwon Province in late September and gradually moves south. In regions such as Seoraksan, fall colors can often be enjoyed from early October, while Seoul and southern regions usually reach their peak between late October and mid-November. As foliage timing varies depending on temperature and rainfall, it is best to check the latest forecast before your trip.

Located in central Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and Namsan are some of the city’s best autumn foliage destinations. Here, travelers can experience traditional Korean palace scenery alongside panoramic views of modern Seoul.
At Gyeongbokgung Palace, take a walk around Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion. Continue to nearby Seochon or Insadong to explore hanok alleys, traditional craft shops, and cafés. Later, walk along the Namsan walking trails or take the Namsan Cable Car to the N Seoul Tower observatory for sweeping autumn views of the city.

Seoul Forest is a large urban park located in Seongsu-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. Its spacious lawns, golden ginkgo paths, and colorful maple groves make it an ideal place for a relaxing autumn walk.
Visitors can enjoy natural scenery in the heart of Seoul before exploring the nearby cafés, select shops, and pop-up stores of Seongsu-dong. Renting a bicycle to explore the park and the nearby Hangang River area or enjoying a picnic on the lawn are also highly recommended.

Nami Island is located in Chuncheon, Gangwon State, and is famous for its long ginkgo and metasequoia tree-lined paths. A ferry ride from Gapyeong Wharf takes approximately five minutes.
With mostly flat walking paths, Nami Island is an accessible destination for travelers who want to enjoy Korea’s autumn scenery without hiking. For a more memorable arrival, visitors can also enter the island by zip wire.

Hwadam Forest is an ecological garden located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province. Its gently sloping forest paths and themed gardens make it one of the most popular autumn foliage destinations near Seoul.
The forest is especially known for its dense maple tree areas and scenic viewpoints overlooking the colorful landscape. Travelers who prefer less walking can use the monorail to explore selected sections. The birch forest, pine garden, and rock garden each offer a different seasonal atmosphere.

Seoraksan National Park stretches across Sokcho, Inje-gun, and Yangyang-gun in Gangwon State. It is one of Korea’s best-known mountain destinations and one of the earliest places to experience autumn foliage.
Its rugged granite peaks, deep valleys, and vivid red and golden forests create a dramatic landscape that is difficult to find in the city. Mountain temperatures can be considerably lower, so bring a warm outer layer.

Naejangsan National Park is located in Jeongeup, Jeonbuk State. In late autumn, a brilliant red maple tunnel stretches from the park entrance toward Naejangsa Temple, creating one of Korea’s most iconic autumn scenes.
The vivid foliage, traditional temple architecture, ponds, and pavilions make Naejangsan especially popular with photographers and travelers seeking classic Korean autumn scenery.

Korea experiences significant temperature differences between day and night during autumn, and September can feel very different from November. Instead of relying on one heavy piece of clothing, wear several light layers that are easy to add or remove.

Although daytime temperatures in Seoul may feel warm, evenings can quickly become chilly. Higher-elevation destinations such as Seoraksan and Naejangsan often feel colder than city areas, so pack an additional warm outer layer.

Real-time information is especially important when traveling during Korea’s autumn foliage season. Reliable mobile data helps travelers check changing mountain weather, cable car operations, bus stop locations, and KTX or ITX train schedules and bookings.
LG U+ eSIM provides access to a Korean mobile carrier’s 5G and LTE network, making it a practical option for international travelers visiting multiple regions.

The autumn colors that begin at Seoraksan gradually spread to Seoul’s royal palaces and Seoul Forest, before reaching Nami Island and Naejangsan. Prepare for Korea’s large temperature changes with a warm outer layer and comfortable walking shoes.
LG U+ 5G and LTE eSIM also helps you stay connected while checking maps, transportation schedules, and travel updates. With fewer worries about connectivity, you can focus more fully on the colorful scenery outside the train window and the memorable moments waiting at each destination.