I’ve traveled across Korea in October multiple times, and it’s the month I always recommend to my friends and family. I’ve done two long autumn road-trips across the country, from crisp mornings in busy Seoul to chasing fall foliage in Seoraksan National Park and the pink muhly fields of Jeju Island.
But what I love most about autumn in South Korea is the perfect weather balance: it’s cooler and clearer than September, but not yet winter-cold. City streets are covered with yellow ginkgo leaves, and mountain trails look stunning with red and orange maples. Whether you’re into hiking, sightseeing, or just wandering with a camera, the October weather in Korea makes it perfect to be outside all day.
In this South Korea in October travel guide, I’ll share my favorite places to see autumn colors, the top festivals to catch, what the weather is really like, and tips from my own trips to help you plan the perfect visit in South Korea in October.
Why visit South Korea in October?
People always ask me which season is the best to travel in Korea. I would say spring in Korea and autumn in Korea are the best. But if you’re wondering which months are my favorite; then the winners are very clear for me: October and November.
The weather is perfect: crisp mornings, sunny afternoons, and temperatures that are still warm enough to wear short sleeves during the day. Unlike spring or summer, rain is rare, so you can plan outdoor adventures without constantly checking the forecast. We’ve spent two spring/early summer’s in Korea in the past and the temperatures are a lot cooler and it rains significantly more!
Autumn also means fewer humidity issues, making hikes and road trips much more enjoyable. I’ve spent days driving through the mountains and wandering city streets, and honestly, Korea in October feels like the ideal balance: you get pleasant warmth, sunshine, and those beautiful fall colors without the heat or heavy rainfall.
PRACTICAL TIP: if you can, aim to visit after the first half of October if you don’t like crowds and want to save some money. The start of the month includes public holidays like Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) and National Foundation Day, which see locals traveling all over the country. Roads, trains, and tourist spots can get crowded and the accommodations are less available/more expensive, so arriving a bit later makes for a much more relaxed experience! If you plan on visiting Jeju, visit after you’re done on the mainland, autumn foliage comes to the island a little later since it’s warmer there.
By mid-October, the skies clear up, the crowds thin, and the foliage is usually amazing (it peaks in November though), making it the perfect time for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy South Korea in October without the hassle of holiday traffic.
How’s the weather in Korea in October?
October in South Korea is a dream for travelers who love comfortable, outdoor-friendly weather. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 18–22°C (64–72°F), which means short sleeves are still totally fine during the day, but you might want a light jacket for the evenings. The humidity drops significantly compared to summer, so hiking in the mountains or exploring cities like Seoul or Busan feels effortless rather than exhausting.
Rain is also far less frequent than in spring or summer, so outdoor adventures and road trips become much easier to plan. When I was road-tripping around the country in October, it rarely rained, which meant I could wake up early, hit the scenic spots, and chase autumn colors without worrying about bringing my umbrella everywhere.
One thing to note: temperatures can vary depending on where you go. Coastal areas like Busan or Jeju Island often stay a bit warmer, while mountainous regions like Seoraksan or Jirisan can be cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings. Layering is your friend here, t-shirts for the day and a cozy jacket or sweater for evenings. My first autumn in Korea I brought a trench coat with me and I wore it once during my 2 month stay and instead stuck to my blazers and jumpers instead.
Another bonus if you’re coming to Korea in October? The skies are usually crystal clear, which makes it the perfect month for photographers and Instagrammers chasing those classic Korean fall landscapes.
| City | Avg. High °C (°F) | Avg. Low °C (°F) | Rainy Days (Oct) | Notes |
| Seoul | 20°C (68°F) | 10°C (50°F) | ~5 days | Crisp mornings, warm afternoons, peak foliage late Oct–early Nov |
| Busan | 22°C (72°F) | 14°C (57°F) | ~5 days | Slightly warmer, great for beaches and coastal walks |
| Gyeongju | 21°C (70°F) | 11°C (52°F) | ~4 days | Pleasant for temple visits and cycling |
| Jeonju | 21°C (70°F) | 10°C (50°F) | ~4 days | Perfect hanok village stroll weather |
| Jeju | 22°C (72°F) | 15°C (59°F) | ~6 days | Mild and breezy, flowers and fall colors mix together |
Fall foliage in Korea: When & where to see it
South Korea in October is a photographer’s dream. The crisp air, golden sunlight, and vibrant leaves make it the ideal time for road trips, hikes, and city strolls. Foliage starts in the northern provinces in early October, spreads south, and often peaks in most areas by mid-to-late October. By November, Jeju Island and the southern coastal areas are covered with reds and oranges (and pinks). If you’re planning to chase autumn in Korea, here’s a province-by-province guide to the best spots.
Gangwon-do (North Korea region)
Gangwon-do is famous for its mountains and national parks. Seoraksan National Park is a must for hiking, especially the Ulsanbawi Rock trail, which rewards you with panoramic views of fiery autumn colors.
Here’s a great autumn tour that includes Seoraksan.
Gyeonggi-do (Western Korea region)
Close to Seoul, Gyeonggi-do has easily accessible foliage. Nami Island is iconic for its tree-lined paths, while Garden of Morning Calm showcases beautifully designed landscapes in warm autumn tones. For those short on time, these spots offer instant Korea in October vibes without leaving the city area.
Gyeongsangbuk-do & Gyeongsangnam-do (South-East Korea region)
In the southeast, Gyeongju is unbeatable for combining history with foliage. The ancient temples, royal tombs, and palace grounds are stunning when framed by autumn leaves. Nearby, Busan may not have dramatic mountains, but parks like Geumjeong Mountain provide colorful escapes within the city.
Jeollabuk-do & Jeollanam-do (South-West Korea region)
Jeonju Hanok Village is magical in fall. Wandering the streets with maple trees overhead makes for cozy photography. Temples (my favorite in autumn is Baegyangsa) and small mountains in these provinces also glow in October, perfect for quieter autumn adventures.
Jeju-do (Jeju Island)
Jeju is unique: coastal cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and waterfalls surrounded by autumn colors. Peak foliage is usually in November, but late October already offers beautiful scenes with fewer crowds. Highlights include Hallasan trails and coastal drives for golden-hour photography. Don’t miss out on all the beautiful pink muhly fields as well!
Photo tips: Early mornings and late afternoons bring out the best autumn hues. Wide-angle lenses capture mountains and cityscapes; standard lenses are perfect for streets and gardens. For extra inspiration, check out my pink muhly guide, autumn road trip itinerary, or my full autumn in Korea guide.
No matter if you’re exploring northern mountains, historical southern cities, or Jeju’s coast, Korea in October offers beautiful colors and experiences for photographers, nature lovers, and regular travelers alike.
When & Where to See Fall Foliage in Korea – Timeline by Province
| Province | Peak Foliage | Highlights & Tips |
| Gangwon-do (North-East) | Early – Mid October | Seoraksan (Ulsanbawi Rock), Odaesan. Hike early to avoid crowds; morning light is perfect for photos. |
| Gyeonggi-do (West) | Mid October | Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, Pocheon Herb Island. Ideal for day trips from Seoul; golden hour on tree-lined paths is magical. |
| Gyeongsangbuk-do (South-East) | Mid – Late October | Gyeongju historical sites, Bulguksa Temple, Mt. Namsan. Perfect for combining history and fall colors. |
| Gyeongsangnam-do (South-East) | Mid – Late October | Busan’s Geumjeong Mountain, Tongdosa Temple. Urban hiking trails offer foliage without leaving the city. |
| Jeollabuk-do (South-West) | Mid – Late October | Baekyangsa Temple, Naejangsan National Park, Jeonju Hanok Village. Stunning temple scenery and vibrant mountains. |
| Jeju-do (Island) | Late October – Early November | Hallasan trails, coastal cliffs, Jeongbang & Cheonjiyeon waterfalls. Colors peak later, but late October is already beautiful. |
Public holidays in Korea in October
October has a few big national holidays: Chuseok, National Foundation Day, and Hangul Day. This is when lots of locals hit the road to visit family or take short trips. If you end up in popular spots during these times, expect crowded trains, busy streets, and hotels filling up fast (and everything tends to be more expensive). Personally, I’d wait until after the first week of Korea in October travel; it’s quieter, and you can enjoy everything without the crowds. But if you don’t mind the hustle, experiencing Korea in October during the holidays can be pretty fun too, with all the local celebrations happening around you. Here are the public holidays in some more detail.
Gaecheonjeol (National Foundation Day) – October 3, 2025
Gaecheonjeol celebrates the legendary founding of Korea’s first kingdom, Gojoseon, by King Dangun in 2333 BC. Expect ceremonies at major landmarks and some local events. While public celebrations are smaller than Chuseok, it’s a great chance to experience Korean national pride.
Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) – October 5–7, 2025
Chuseok is Korea’s most important holiday, celebrating the harvest and honoring ancestors. Families gather, perform charye (ancestral rites), and enjoy seasonal foods like songpyeon. Insider tip: travel is very busy during this period. Roads, trains, and flights fill up fast, and accommodations can be pricey. If you prefer a quieter experience, plan to arrive after October 7.
Hangul Day – October 9, 2025
Hangul Day commemorates King Sejong the Great’s creation of the Korean alphabet in 1446. Events at schools, libraries, and cultural centers celebrate the importance of Hangul, offering a fascinating peek into Korea’s literary heritage.
Festivals & Events
Seoul International Fireworks Festival – September 27, 2025
Although slightly outside October, the Seoul International Fireworks Festival on September 27 is a highlight of the season. Held at Yeouido Hangang Park, this grand display features fireworks from various countries, synchronized to music. Arrive early to secure a good spot, as the area becomes crowded quickly. If you’re planning your Korea in October trip, this festival is a perfect prelude to the month’s autumn celebrations.
Andong Mask Dance Festival – September 26 to October 5, 2025
Running from September 26 to October 5, the Andong Mask Dance Festival showcases Korea’s rich mask dance traditions, particularly the Hahoe Byeolsingut Tallori. Held in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, this UNESCO-recognized event includes performances, mask exhibitions, and hands-on experiences, offering visitors a deep dive into Korean cultural heritage. Experiencing this festival is one of the highlights of Korea in October cultural trips.
Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival – October 4–19, 2025
Held from October 4 to 19, the Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival is a mesmerizing display of illuminated lanterns along the Namgang River. Rooted in the historic Siege of Jinju during the Japanese invasions of the late 16th century, the festival features lantern parades, cultural performances, and traditional music. It’s a must-see for photographers and those seeking a magical evening experience.
Gyeongbokgung Palace at Night – Mid-September to Late October 2025 (Exact Dates TBA)
During these special openings, Gyeongbokgung stays open after dark, illuminated by warm lighting. The nighttime views are stunning, and wearing a hanbok grants free entry. Tickets sell out quickly, so book in advance.
Seoul Drone Light Show – Select Weekends in October 2025
At Ttukseom Hangang Park, hundreds of drones create colorful animations and light patterns in the night sky. It’s free to watch and best enjoyed on a clear autumn evening. Arrive early to secure a prime riverside spot – another highlight for Korea in October travelers seeking modern spectacle.
Jamsugyo Ttubeok Ttubeok Festival – October 11–13, 2025
This lively event takes place on Jamsugyo Bridge, right above the Han River’s surface. It features art installations, live music, food trucks, and illuminated night displays. The creative atmosphere makes it feel like an open-air gallery meets a street party.
Halloween in Hongdae & Itaewon – October 31, 2025
Seoul’s biggest Halloween celebrations happen in these two nightlife districts. Hongdae offers a youthful street party vibe, while Itaewon is known for its massive crowds and international energy. Expect themed drinks, DJs, and streets packed with costumes. Plan ahead and dress warmly for the cool autumn night.
Important: Since the tragic Halloween crowd crush in Itaewon in 2023, security measures have been significantly increased, and it’s now much safer to celebrate there. I was actually in that crowd back in 2023, and it was a horrible, chaotic night that still makes Itaewon harder for me to visit. That tragedy was the result of so many factors aligning at once: a massive crowd after years of Covid restrictions, the recent release of the Made in Itaewon series, the lifting of the mask mandate, and pent-up travel demand. I truly believe it was a one-off occasion, but it’s a part of Itaewon’s history that shouldn’t be forgotten.
Travel planning tips for October in Korea
October is one of Korea’s busiest travel months, so a bit of planning goes a long way. If your trip overlaps with Chuseok week (October 6–8, 2025) or the other early-month holidays, book your accommodation at least 1–2 months in advance, especially in popular destinations like Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju, and Jeju. Prices spike and availability drops quickly – this is something anyone visiting Korea in October should keep in mind.
If you’ll be driving, avoid the first and last days of public holidays at all costs. Highways can turn into endless traffic jams (in and around the bigger cities). Public transport gets packed too, so book KTX train tickets or express bus seats as soon as sales open (usually 2–4 weeks before). You can find car rentals here.
For intercity travel, the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass) is worth considering if you plan multiple long-distance trips. In cities, a T-money card works for buses, subways, and even some taxis, while city-specific passes like the Discover Seoul Pass or Visit Busan Pass can save money if you’re hitting a lot of attractions in a short time. Planning ahead is key for a smooth experience when exploring Korea in October.
As for staying connected, I recommend renting a portable Wi-Fi device at the airport if you need unlimited data for navigation and streaming. If you prefer something lighter, a prepaid Korean SIM card is easy to buy online before your trip or pick up on arrival.
What to wear in South Korea in October
October is all about layers. During the day, it’s often warm enough for short sleeves, at least I’ve been comfortable in just a T-shirt or a summer dress. If you do get warm easily, I suggest you try (but absolutely not a need) to cover your neckline. Short skirts are okay, but neckline and shoulders still get you some stares from the older generations.
Mornings and evenings can get crisp, especially in the mountains, so I always pack a light jacket, cardigan, or windbreaker. Jeans or casual trousers are perfect for both city strolling and easy hikes, and breathable fabrics make long walks or drives way more comfortable.
For shoes, comfortable sneakers or light hiking shoes are a must, you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, whether it’s in Seoul’s streets, the temples of Gyeongju, or Jeju’s scenic trails. Don’t forget sunglasses and a light scarf; the sun can be surprisingly strong, and a scarf adds just enough warmth when it gets cooler.
Packing tips from my October travels
From my experience traveling around Korea and Jeju island in autumn, layering is key. I usually carry a small bag with a light jumper, a water bottle, and my camera gear (because yes, the foliage is that amazing). Even if it’s warm enough for short sleeves during the day, the wind can be chilly at higher altitudes or near the coast.
If you’re hiking or planning long drives, think practical: comfy shoes, layers you can shed, and maybe a compact umbrella just in case. This way, you’re prepared for everything, from sunny city afternoons to crisp, colorful mountain mornings.
All in all, South Korea in October offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, festivals, and cuisine. Whether you’re wandering city streets, hiking mountains, or savoring seasonal dishes, this is the time when the country truly comes alive. Pack your camera, your appetite, and your curiosity, spending October in Korea is a trip you won’t forget.
