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Where to See the Best Fall Colors in Korea

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🌍 Foreign Residents in Korea Series

Step-by-step guides for foreigners living in Korea — from address registration and visa to banking, taxes, and digital certificates.

If you’re chasing that perfect autumn day in Korea,
these are the corners where the trees look like they’re glowing from within.

Where to See the Best Fall Colors in Korea

Last updated: November 13, 2025

📍 Region: Nationwide   🚆 Best Route: KTX to major national parks   🕒 Best Time: Late Oct–Early Nov   🎟 Entry: Mostly Free
☁️ Weather: Crisp mornings, cool afternoons    👥 Crowds: High on weekends.

When Korea shifts from humid summer to its crisp golden season, the whole country softens into warm colors that feel like a gentle breath after the rush of city life. Even if you’re based in Seoul, autumn gives you countless escapes where time seems to slow down.

You’ll find quiet forest trails, misty mountain peaks, and rivers lined with red maples—each with its own calm charm. This guide highlights the best spots that locals return to year after year.

🌸 Highlights

  • Naejangsan National Park — Famous for blazing red maples and reflective temple paths.
  • Seoraksan — Dramatic granite peaks wrapped in bright gold and tangerine foliage.
  • Gyeongju — Historic tombs and calm lakes painted with soft amber leaves, perfect for slow walks.

📷 Photo Spots

  • Naejangsan Maple Tunnel — Best at 8–10 a.m. when sunlight filters through the leaves.
  • Seoraksan Cable Car Viewpoint — Capture wide valleys glowing at sunset.

⏰ Best Time

Late October to early November, especially early mornings when the air is cool and colors appear richer.

🗺️ How to Get There

From Route Duration Notes
Seoul → Naejangsan KTX to Jeongeup → Local bus ~2 hrs Arrive early to avoid park entrance lines.
Seoul → Seoraksan Express bus to Sokcho → Local bus to park ~2.5 hrs Weekday visits are far less crowded.

🎟️ Tickets

Item Price Hours Link
National Park Entry ₩0–₩5,000 Year-round VisitKorea

🍽️ Eats & Cafes

🏙️ Local Vibe

Korea’s autumn has a peaceful, nostalgic feeling—like the world is slowing just enough for you to breathe deeply. Leaves crunch softly under your steps, mountain breezes smell of pine, and even busy towns feel gentler. It’s a season that invites you to wander unhurried and savor every warm shade.

🧳 Travel Tips

  • Book KTX and buses at least a week ahead during peak foliage weekends.
  • Use NaverMap for real-time bus arrivals near national parks.
  • Bring light gloves—mountain mornings can feel colder than expected.
  • Start hikes by 9 a.m. for softer lighting and easier trails.

Share your autumn photos with #TravelKorea — we might feature your post!

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