Korea Fall Foliage 2026: Peak Dates & 7 Best Spots (From a Local)
Hi friends, it's Hee from Seoul! π
The mornings here have finally turned crisp, and that can only mean one thing: autumn leaves are coming. Every year my friends abroad ask me the same question — "When is the best time to see fall colors in Korea?" So I put together this guide with the official 2026 forecast and my favorite spots.
π️ 2026 Peak Foliage Forecast
According to the Korea Forest Service's 2026 forecast, the first leaves started turning on September 14 in Gangwon Province. Colors will spread south from early October and reach their peak nationwide in late October.
- Seoraksan: around October 20
- Songnisan: around October 28
- Ginkgo trees (nationwide): around October 30
- Maple trees (nationwide): around October 31
- Naejangsan: around November 4
- Hallasan (Jeju): around November 6
π‘ Tip: "Peak" here means about 50% of the forest has changed color. Actual timing can shift a few days depending on weather, so check again right before your trip.
π 7 Best Places to See Fall Leaves in Korea
1. Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon)
The first place in Korea to turn red, and honestly the most dramatic. Rocky peaks covered in orange and red — it looks like a painting. Visit around October 15–25.
π‘ Tip: Some trails require online reservations during peak season. Check the Korea National Park website before you go.
2. Nami Island (Chuncheon)
Easy day trip from Seoul, and famous for its tree-lined paths. The ginkgo and sequoia lanes are perfect for photos. Best in late October.
π‘ Tip: Go on a weekday morning. Weekend afternoons get very crowded.
3. Hwadam Forest (Gwangju, Gyeonggi)
A beautifully managed forest garden about an hour from Seoul, with over 400 kinds of maple trees. Gentle walking paths make it great for all ages.
π‘ Tip: Entry is by advance reservation only, and autumn tickets sell out fast.
4. Changdeokgung Secret Garden (Seoul)
If you only have time for Seoul, this is my top pick. A royal garden hidden behind a palace, with ponds and pavilions framed by red maples. Peak is usually late October to early November.
π‘ Tip: The Secret Garden can only be visited on a guided tour — book online early.
5. Songnisan National Park (Chungbuk)
Less crowded than Seoraksan, with a beautiful temple (Beopjusa) at the entrance. Great for a calm, slow autumn walk. Peak around October 28.
6. Naejangsan National Park (Jeonbuk)
Many Koreans call this the most beautiful autumn mountain in the country. The maple tunnel leading to Naejangsa Temple is breathtaking. Peak around November 4.
π‘ Tip: Mornings can be close to freezing in early November — bring a warm jacket and gloves.
7. Hallasan & Jeju Island
Missed the peak on the mainland? Jeju is the last stop. Hallasan turns red around November 6, so you can enjoy autumn a little longer.
π Bonus: Myeongseongsan (Pocheon) — My Own Pick
π‘ Tip: Go early on a weekday — the silver grass season draws big crowds on weekends.
π Quick Travel Tips
- Dress in layers. Days are mild, but mountain mornings are cold.
- Go on weekdays. Autumn weekends are the busiest time of the year.
- Use public transport. Parking near famous spots fills up early.
- Book ahead. Hwadam Forest and the Secret Garden need reservations.
π Summary
For the best colors, start in the north (Seoraksan, mid–late October) and move south (Naejangsan, early November), finishing in Jeju. If you're staying in Seoul, the Secret Garden and Nami Island are easy and beautiful choices.
Autumn in Korea is short but so worth it. I hope you get to see it with your own eyes this year. π
Which spot would you most like to visit? Tell me in the comments — I'd love to hear! π
π You Might Also Like
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- Korean Skincare Routine for Beginners (Coming soon)
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