LIST: Find the best spots to see autumn foliage in South Korea
For many Filipinos, experiencing a change of season is a major travel goal, with chasing autumn foliage right at the top of the list.
One of the best destinations to witness those vibrant autumn colors in full abundance is South Korea. You get to walk down streets lined with tall trees proud in their whimsical seasonal glory, crowned in amber and yellow leaves, all while bundled up in your favorite sweaters, scarves, and boots. A true Instagram-worthy moment, indeed!
But before you turn this daydream into the trip of your dreams, you need to be armed with the right information to catch the foliage at its peak. While peak periods vary by region, travelers can typically enjoy the changing colors from late September to mid-November. However, the sweet spot is usually around Halloween through the first week of November—especially if you plan on staying in Seoul or its neighboring areas!
While wandering through Seoul's popular foliage spots—like Seoul Forest, the Han River parks, Namsan Park, and Changdeokgung Palace—is enough to satisfy your fall fantasies, these places can get rather crowded. A quick search on Naver using the keywords 단풍 명소 (danpoong myeongsoo, or “autumn foliage hotspots”) will reveal plenty of other options—but fortunately, PhilSTAR L!fe has already done the heavy work and curated a list of alternatives so you don't have to!
Whatever your vibe may be, these spots are sure to give you your best autumn experience yet.
Anseong Farmland
Have you ever seen that viral pink grass field on your feed? Known as the pink muhly, this plant grows during autumn, adding a touch of romance to the vibrant seasonal scenery. Enjoy this unique flora, along with a sprawling cosmos field, at Anseong Farmland—where you can also spend the day interacting with rabbits, sheep, chickens, cows, and more.
Sungkyunkwan University (Seoul Campus)
Within the grounds of one of South Korea's historic institutions lies a top-tier fall attraction beloved by locals. Visitors flock to Sungkyunkwan University's courtyard to take photos with massive, more than 500-year-old ginkgo trees designated as Natural Monument No. 59. You can also admire the restored Myeongnyundang lecture hall, along with campus grounds blanketed in tints of red, yellow, and orange. Climb up to Suseon Hall and check out the viewing platform, which offers sweeping city views featuring both N Seoul Tower and Lotte World Tower in a single frame.
Hanam Union Park
Hop on a train ride to Hanam’s Union Park and bathe in glorious autumn foliage of its surrounding fields and the majestic Geomdansan Mountain. Take photos with yellow- and crimson-leafed trees before heading up to the Union Tower’s observatory for a 360-degree view of the fiery, lively landscape. If you want an extra treat, indulge in the nearby Aquafield for a premium jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience, which includes an outdoor foot bath overlooking the mountainscapes in peak autumn hues.
Jangtaesan Recreational Forest
While Daejeon is famous for its incredible bakeries, locals also flock there for the breathtaking autumn foliage at Jangtaesan Recreational Forest. Thousands of towering metasequoia trees, along with ginkgo and cypress groves, await visitors in this tranquil fall wonderland. Thread through its pathways and discover not only flora, but also ponds and valleys, a suspension bridge, and even a sky tower. You’ll definitely get snap-happy in every nook and cranny!
Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan is almost synonymous with autumn, and it’s easy to see why. Upon reaching the foot of the mountain, visitors stand in awe before its jaw-dropping terrain of vibrant autumnal shades and sharp granite peaks. You may opt to hike up to the sought-after Ulsanbawi Rock, or take in the season’s colors from the comfort of a cable car. Either way, it’s guaranteed to deliver one of the best panoramic views you’ll ever witness.
Hoedong Reservoir
Before you head to Busan’s marvelous beaches, make a quick stop at Hoedong Reservoir! A best kept secret for many locals seeking a marvelous yet serene and enjoyable fall foliage viewing experience, its walking trails offer autumn’s exuberant colors alongside the calming sight of the glittering water surface. There are also plenty of local restaurants and cafes to fuel you up after a full day of exploring—make sure to grab a warm cup of coffee or have your fill of the area’s specialty duck dishes.
Suwon Arboretum Irwol
An underrated hotspot among the foreign crowd, Suwon Arboretum Irwol boasts a great variety of both indoor and outdoor gardens. Not only will you be greeted with warm autumn colors, the greenery and flower landscapes, along with beautifully decorated rest areas and photo spots, offer the best backdrops for you fall OOTDs. The space features a cafe with floor-to-ceiling walls, where you can sit down and sip a glass of coffee while admiring the view. End your day by taking a stroll at Irwol Reservoir, located just beside the facility, where you’ll be treated to an incredible sunset that complements the season best.
And P.S., this place is one of the filming locations for the hit K-drama Queen of Tears.
in Queen of Tears!