15 Best Places for Fall Foliage in Korea | Top Autumn 2025 Destinations

Fall in Korea is a spectacular time when the landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of red, orange, and yellow. Whether you’re in bustling Seoul or looking for peaceful retreats nearby or throughout the country, you’ll find endless opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the season. In this blog, we’ll take you through the best places for fall foliage in Korea this year, sorting them by travel times — from destinations within Seoul, just a couple of hours away, to spots located all across the country.

When Is the Best Time to See Fall Foliage in Korea?

The fall foliage Korea 2025 season generally starts in mid-October and peaks by early November. The timing varies slightly by region, with northern areas like Seoraksan experiencing peak foliage earlier, while southern locations such as Jeju and Jirisan reach their peak later in November. Seoul and its surrounding areas usually enjoy the most vibrant colors between late October and early November.

In Seoul: Where to Enjoy Fall Foliage Without Leaving the City

1. Namsan Seoul Tower (Travel Time: 30 minutes from central Seoul)

One of the most popular attractions in the city, Namsan Seoul Tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and excellent opportunities for enjoying fall foliage in Seoul. The scenic walk up to the tower is lined with trees that turn bright red, orange, and yellow in autumn, providing a peaceful atmosphere right in the heart of the city.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station (Exit 3). From there, either walk to the Namsan Cable Car station or take the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus (No. 02, 03, or 05) that will take you up to Namsan Seoul Tower.

2. Changdeokgung Palace (Travel Time: 20 minutes from central Seoul)

For a blend of history and autumn beauty, Changdeokgung Palace is a perfect destination. The palace’s Secret Garden (Huwon) is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring trees that burst into shades of gold and crimson during fall. This UNESCO World Heritage site is among the best places for fall foliage in Korea, offering a serene and culturally enriching experience.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 3 to Anguk Station (Exit 3), then walk for about 5-10 minutes to the palace’s main gate. The Secret Garden requires a separate ticket and guided tour, which is sold through a competitive lottery system on the official website.

3. Seoul Forest (Travel Time: 25 minutes from central Seoul)

Seoul Forest is one of the largest green spaces in the capital, and during the fall, it turns into a vibrant display of golden ginkgo trees and fiery maples. This popular park is easily accessible and perfect for a relaxing stroll, offering one of the most tranquil fall foliage Seoul experiences without leaving the city.

How to get there:
Take Subway Bundang Line to Seoul Forest Station (Exit 3). The park is a short walk from the station and easy to navigate once you arrive.

4. Olympic Park (Travel Time: 40 minutes from central Seoul)

Known for its expansive lawns and peaceful atmosphere, Olympic Park is another wonderful spot for enjoying autumn leaves near Seoul. The park’s wide open spaces and walking paths are lined with trees that display stunning fall colors, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day out with family or friends during the fall season.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 5 to Olympic Park Station (Exit 3). You can also take Line 8 to Mongchontoseong Station (Exit 1). The park is vast, so make sure to plan which part you want to explore.

5. Bukhansan National Park (Travel Time: 1 hour from Seoul)

For an adventurous escape from the city, Bukhansan National Park is a fantastic choice. Just an hour away from downtown Seoul, this park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, especially during autumn. The mountains and forests here become a vibrant spectacle of red and orange hues, making it one of the best spots for a quick fall foliage trip from Seoul.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 3 to Gupabal Station (Exit 1), then transfer to Bus 34, 704, or 8772 and get off at Bukhansan Mountain Entrance. From there, you can start one of the various hiking trails leading into the park.

Within 2 Hours from Seoul: Autumn Escapes

6. Nami Island (Travel Time: 1.5 hours from Seoul)

Nami Island, just a short trip from Seoul, is one of the most iconic spots for autumn leaves travel Korea. Famous for its scenic tree-lined roads, the island transforms into a wonderland of golden ginkgo and crimson maple trees during the fall. Nami Island is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a perfect backdrop for autumn photos.

How to get there:
Take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station (about 1 hour). From Gapyeong Station, take a local bus or taxi to the Nami Island ferry dock. The ferry ride to the island is just a few minutes.

7. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (Travel Time: 1 hour from Seoul)

For those looking for autumn leaves near Seoul, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a fantastic choice. This UNESCO World Heritage site is surrounded by beautiful trees that come alive with color in the fall. Walking along the fortress walls provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal place to enjoy the autumn season.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 1 from Seoul Station to Suwon Station (Exit 4). From Suwon Station, take Bus 11, 13, or 36 to the fortress, or opt for a quick taxi ride directly to the site. Check out my Suwon walking tour or book one of the tours including transportation below.

8. Daedunsan Provincial Park (Travel Time: 2 hours from Seoul)

A bit further out but well worth the trip, Daedunsan Provincial Park is a must-see for anyone looking for adventure and breathtaking autumn views. Known for its steep hiking trails and suspension bridge, Daedunsan offers visitors a thrilling and picturesque escape from the city. The park’s vibrant fall colors make it one of the best places for fall foliage in Korea.

How to get there:
Take an express bus from Seoul’s Central City Bus Terminal to Jeonju or Daejeon (1.5 hours). From there, take a local bus or taxi to Daedunsan Provincial Park. You can also take a KTX train to Daejeon and transfer to a local bus heading to the park.

9. Gwangneung Forest (Travel Time: 1 hour from Seoul)

Gwangneung Forest, located just an hour from Seoul, is a serene and peaceful retreat perfect for those looking to avoid the crowds. This forest is known for its vibrant autumn foliage, featuring a variety of trees that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy fall foliage Korea 2025 in a quiet and natural setting.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 1 to Uijeongbu Station. From there, transfer to Bus 21 or 73 and get off at Gwangneung Forest. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Uijeongbu Station, which takes about 20 minutes.

10. Hwadam Forest (Travel Time: 1.5 hours from Seoul)

Nestled just outside of Seoul in Gyeonggi Province, Hwadam Forest is a hidden gem for fall foliage lovers. This beautifully maintained forest comes alive with vibrant autumn colors from late October to November, making it one of the best destinations for autumn leaves near Seoul. It’s perfect for families or anyone seeking a peaceful getaway.

How to get there:
Take Subway Line 3 to Jeongja Station, then transfer to the Shinbundang Line and go to Gwanggyo Jungang (Line S5). From Gwanggyo, take a taxi or catch a local shuttle bus to Hwadam Forest. Entrance tickets for the peak autumn season sell out fast so it’s best to book through a travel provider like Klook here.

All Over Korea: Must-Visit Fall Foliage Spots

11. Seoraksan National Park (Travel Time: 2 hours from Seoul)

One of the most famous spots for fall foliage in Korea, Seoraksan National Park is a natural wonder that draws visitors from across the country. The park’s towering peaks, dense forests, and dramatic rock formations are even more spectacular when adorned with the colors of autumn. Seoraksan is a top choice for hikers and anyone looking for a scenic autumn adventure.

How to get there:
From Dong Seoul Bus Terminal or Gangnam Express Bus Terminal, take an express bus to Sokcho (2 hours). Once in Sokcho, transfer to Bus 7 or 7-1, which goes directly to the entrance of Seoraksan National Park. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Sokcho for convenience.

12. Naejangsan National Park (Travel Time: 3 hours from Seoul)

Located in the Jeolla region, Naejangsan National Park is widely regarded as one of the best places for fall foliage Korea 2025. This park is known for its vivid red maple trees and its stunning autumn landscape, which attracts nature lovers and photographers alike. The park also features beautiful temples and serene walking paths that make for a peaceful and picturesque autumn retreat.

How to get there:
Take a KTX train from Yongsan Station to Jeongeup Station (about 2 hours). From Jeongeup Station, catch a local bus or taxi to Naejangsan National Park (30 minutes). The park’s vivid red maple trees make it one of the top destinations for fall.

13. Jirisan National Park (Travel Time: 3.5 hours from Seoul)

As Korea’s oldest and largest national park, Jirisan offers a stunning backdrop for fall foliage. The sprawling mountain ranges are covered in rich reds and oranges during autumn, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park’s vast trails, scenic viewpoints, and tranquil temples make Jirisan one of the most popular Korean autumn destinations.

How to get there:
Take an express bus from Seoul’s Nambu Bus Terminal to Jinju (3 hours), then take a local bus to Jirisan National Park (40 minutes). Alternatively, you can take a train to Gurye, one of the main access points to the park, and then catch a bus or taxi to your chosen trailhead.

14. Gyeongju (Travel Time: 4 hours from Seoul)

Known as Korea’s “museum without walls,” Gyeongju is an ancient city that offers a unique combination of historical sites and natural beauty. In autumn, the city’s many temples, tombs, and palaces are surrounded by trees in vibrant fall colors. Gyeongju is a perfect destination for those looking to combine cultural exploration with the beauty of fall foliage in Korea. Check out my Gyeongju itinerary for things to do while you’re there.

How to get there:
Take a KTX train from Seoul Station to Singyeongju Station (about 2 hours). From Singyeongju, you can take a local bus or taxi to downtown Gyeongju (30 minutes), where you’ll find many historical sites surrounded by stunning autumn foliage.

15. Jeju Island (Travel Time: 1 hour flight from Seoul)

Although Jeju Island is best known for its beaches, it also offers a stunning autumn landscape. Hallasan Mountain, the island’s centerpiece, becomes a vibrant display of autumn colors in late October and November. The island’s unique volcanic landscapes and waterfalls create a truly magical backdrop for fall foliage, making Jeju a fantastic choice for autumn leaves travel Korea.

How to get there:
Take a direct flight from Gimpo International Airport to Jeju International Airport (1 hour). Once on Jeju Island, you can rent a car or take local buses to Hallasan Mountain or other popular foliage spots. Hallasan’s colorful autumn landscapes are particularly impressive.

Enjoy exploring fall foliage in Korea!

From the vibrant streets of Seoul to the tranquil national parks throughout Korea, there are endless Korean autumn destinations to explore. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from Seoul or a longer journey across the country, the beauty of Korea’s autumn landscapes will leave you in awe. Don’t miss the chance to experience the best places for fall foliage in Korea this year!

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