2025 Autumn Foliage Hotspots in South Korea: Top 10 Must‑Visit Locations

Autumn in South Korea offers one of nature’s most dramatic transformations as forests, mountains and riversides blaze with red, orange and gold hues.
If you’re planning a 2025 autumn getaway, here are ten spectacular places where fall colours peak and photo‑opportunities abound.

1. Mt. Seoraksan (Gangwon Province)

As one of the earliest areas to display autumn colour, Seoraksan National Park bursts into vibrant tones from late September. :contentReference
Ride the cable car or hike a trail to reach sweeping vistas of crimson maples and pine‑clad crags. Best visited early morning to avoid crowds and catch the golden light.

2. Naejangsan National Park (Jeolla Provinces)

Known for its “hidden mountain” charm, Naejangsan is a legendary leaf‑peeping destination with historical significance. 
In autumn, the valley trails become a canopy of autumn reds. Ideal for half‑day excursions, especially when staying near the Jeolla region.

3. Hwadam Botanic Garden (Gyeonggi Province)

Just outside Seoul yet remarkably peaceful, this botanical retreat features woodland paths and reflective ponds framed by autumn leaves. {index=2}
Visit in late October for the richest palette of colours, and enjoy a slower pace away from major crowds.

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"이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다"

4. Bukhansan & Seoul’s Northern Parks

If you have limited time and still want city‑accessible fall scenery, Bukhansan and nearby urban green spaces deliver.
Try early morning visits to enjoy the mist over swollen foliage and the contrast of city skyline against amber‑tinted trees.

5. Jirisan & Southern Ridge Lines

The southern ridges of Korea hold onto autumn colour later in the season—ideal if you travel in mid to late November.
Hiking the trail network rewards you with views of coastlines and ridges bathed in sunlight through red maple branches.

6. Jeju Island – Hallasan & Surroundings

For a unique island autumn escape, Jeju’s Hallasan region gives a slower‑moving fall palette, extending into November.
Walk the gentle trails near 1,100 m altitude and pause in cafés set amidst autumn gardens for a relaxed day trip.

7. Gangneung & East‑Coast Forests

Coastal forests combined with seaside views make the east coast intriguing in fall. From pine trees sprinkled with amber leaves to reflections on lake surfaces, this region blends water and forest scenes beautifully.

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"이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다"

8. Jeonju & Central Valley Scenic Drives

Taking advantage of the valley terrain, many scenic roads in central Korea offer perfect autumn drives—with stops at small cafés and local viewpoints—ideal for relaxed leaf‑peeping.

9. Suncheon Bay National Garden & Reed Fields

Beyond typical maples, Suncheon Bay presents a marshland autumn scene with reed beds and golden grasses shimmering in the late‑season light. 

10. Damyang & Metasequoia Road (South Jeolla)

A tree‑lined avenue of metasequoia turns copper‑gold in autumn and creates a drive‑through experience unlike any other.
Combine with local food and green tea fields for a full day outing.

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"이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다"

Planning Tips

• Autumn colours in Korea begin in the north in late September, peak across central regions in October, and linger in the south till early November.
• For photography, aim for early morning or late afternoon light when colours intensify.
• Use public transport or arrive before 09:00 at popular spots to avoid crowds.
• Dress in layers – morning and evening temperatures can drop significantly in autumn.

Whether you’re capturing crimson leaves under a temple roof or winding through a forest tunnel of gold, South Korea’s autumn is one of nature’s grandest shows.
Pick your region, pack your camera and let the fall journey begin.