Fall foliage Korea 2025 guide: Discover the top autumn destinations, including Seoraksan and Naejangsan, with a perfect 6-day itinerary to plan your trip
🍁 When Is the Best Time to Visit for Fall Leaves?
Fall foliage in Korea 2025 is a truly magical experience. As autumn returns, Korea is painted with clear blue skies, crisp breezes, and brilliant colours from vibrant autumn leaves. This season offers a rare harmony of natural beauty that makes every walk feel like a dream. To help you plan your perfect autumn getaway, we’re sharing the best fall foliage destinations in Korea for 2025—along with a 1-week travel itinerary to catch the autumn colours at their peak.
- Best time: Mid-October to early November
- Foliage progression: Starts in the mountains of Gangwon-do (e.g., Seoraksan), then moves south to Seoul, Gyeongju, and Jeju Island
- Ideal duration: At least 6 days to explore 2–3 key regions
📍 Top 5 Fall Foliage Spots in Korea
1. Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan, located in Gangwon Province, is one of Korea’s most iconic travel destinations. In autumn, it transforms into a breathtaking landscape of fall foliage that’s unlike anything you’ll see in any other country. The mountain is vast, offering a variety of hiking trails, and for those who prefer not to hike, there’s even a cable car that takes you straight up to the summit—making it an accessible destination for all types of travellers. After enjoying the stunning fall scenery and a refreshing hike or trek, why not treat yourself to some makgeolli (Korean rice wine) and pajeon (savoury pancake) at a local restaurant near the mountain? It’s the kind of vacation that feels like a slice of heaven.
📷 Seoraksan National Park in autumn
2. Naejangsan National Park
Naejangsan, nestled in Jeollabuk-do Province, is a lesser-known but truly enchanting fall destination in Korea. Every year, as October draws to a close, the mountain transforms into a breathtaking canvas of crimson, amber, and gold—offering one of the most romantic autumn scenes you’ll find anywhere in the country. Unlike the dramatic cliffs of Seoraksan, Naejangsan offers a softer, more serene atmosphere. The gently winding forest trails, the iconic maple tree tunnel, and the centuries-old Naejangsa Temple create the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take deep breaths, and let nature reset your soul.
One of the best parts? You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker. Most trails are beginner-friendly, and even a casual walk offers stunning photo opportunities at every turn. It’s a favourite for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking peace and beauty.
After soaking in the autumn colours, be sure to stop by a nearby local eatery for makgeolli (Korean rice wine) and pajeon (savoury pancake)—a beloved Korean tradition during fall outings. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm, crispy bite with a cold cup of makgeolli after a cool-weather forest stroll.
If you’re looking for a fall foliage destination that combines gentle nature, vivid scenery, and a touch of Korean tradition, Naejangsan should be at the top of your list.
🍁 Seoraksan vs. Naejangsan: Fall Foliage Comparison
| Category | Seoraksan | Naejangsan |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Sokcho, Gangwon Province (Northeast coast) | Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do (Southwest region) |
| Best Viewing Time | Early to mid-October (one of the earliest in Korea) | Mid to late October (peak: late Oct to early Nov) |
| Landscape Style | Majestic rocky mountains with high-altitude foliage | Gentle forest trails with temple and lake scenery |
| Hiking Difficulty | Medium to high (e.g., Ulsanbawi is a steep trail) | Low to medium (many easy and scenic walking paths) |
| Top Highlights | Ulsanbawi Rock, Gwongeumseong Cable Car, Biryong Falls | Maple Tree Tunnel, Naejangsa Temple, Naejang Lake |
| Vibe/Atmosphere | Dynamic, dramatic natural grandeur | Calm, serene, traditional Korean atmosphere |
| Accessibility | About 2.5–3 hours from Seoul by express bus | About 2.5–3 hours from Seoul via KTX + local bus |
| Recommended For | Adventurers, hikers, landscape photographers | Adventurers, hikers, and landscape photographers |
3. Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju
📷 Bulguksa Temple in Autumn
Bulguksa is one of the most famous temples in Korea. If you drive about five hours south from Seoul, you’ll reach Gyeongju—a historic city known for its abundance of relics from the Silla Dynasty. Bulguksa is located here, and as you walk along the path leading into the temple, you’re greeted by stunning autumn foliage that beautifully surrounds the entire complex. Gyeongju is a city that truly represents Korea’s rich history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean culture and heritage.
4. Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace
A royal garden tucked inside one of Seoul’s most beautiful palaces, the fall colours here are especially enchanting, especially in hanbok (traditional attire).
5. Namsan Park or Seoul Forest
If you don’t want to travel far to see autumn leaves, don’t worry—there’s a great solution! Namsan Park and Seoul Forest in Seoul may not offer the grand scale of places like Seoraksan or Naejangsan, but they still provide a charming dose of fall colours right in the city. These spots are perfect for those who want to explore other attractions in Seoul while enjoying the beauty of autumn foliage as a quick and romantic bonus. Highly recommended for travellers short on time!
🗓 Suggested 6-Day Fall Foliage Itinerary
Day 1–2: Explore Autumn in Seoul
- Visit Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden
- Hanbok rental + Namsan fall walk
- Traditional teahouse or street market dinner
Day 3–4: Head East or South
- Seoraksan: Hiking at Ulsanbawi or Gwongeumseong Trail
OR - Naejangsan: Temple walks + photo spots
Day 5: Gyeongju
- Explore Bulguksa Temple, ancient ruins, and cultural cafés
Day 6: Optional Extension – Jeju Island
- Hallasan base trails, silver grass fields, or pink muhly gardens
🧭 Travel Tips for Autumn in Korea
- Dress in layers: Mornings and evenings get chilly
- Book early: Accommodations and tours fill up quickly in fall
- Photo tip: Hanbok + temple + foliage = the perfect Instagram shot
- Apps to download: KakaoMap, Naver Map, Klook