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Eye-opening Journey to Korea: Joy, Love, and Happiness in the Heart of this October!

October Travel to Korea

Is October a Good Time to Visit?

Yes! October can be a great time to visit South Korea, as the weather during this month is generally pleasant, and you can experience the beautiful fall foliage. In this posting, I’ve organized some factors you might consider when planning a trip to Korea in October. Plan your October with me! 🙂 

Weather and Clothing

October is part of the autumn season in Korea. The weather during this month is mild, with temperatures averaging between 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F). It’s neither too hot nor too cold, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and enjoying the breathtaking fall foliage that paints the landscape in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. 

However, if you are from a warm country, it’s better advised to bring a light, outer layer when visiting Korea in October. While the daytime temperatures are pleasant, the nights can feel a bit cooler compared to the daytime, and there might be unexpected temperature drops. Also, South Korea can experience rain in October, so it’s a good idea to have a compact umbrella on hand. 

When to Best Visit Korea

The National Holidays in October are on the 1st to 3rd, and the 9th of October.  While October is not as crowded as the peak summer months, it can still be a popular time for tourists, especially during the Chuseok holiday when many locals travel. Especially in this year, many Koreans are planning their holidays by taking day offs on the 4th, 5th, and 6th to enjoy a longer holiday till October 9th. So if you want to avoid larger crowds, consider visiting later in the month or plan your itinerary to avoid popular tourists spots during the holiday period. 

Also, I personally recommend that you visit Korea during the later days of October, because South Korea’s fall foliage season typically begins in mid-October, and the most stunning displays of autumn leaves can be enjoyed from late October into early November. If you’re eager to witness the vibrant fall colors, planning your trip for mid-October is highly recommended. During this period, you can explore various regions in South Korea known for their golden-hued foliage, with national parks like Jirisan, Namhansanseong, and dense forests of maple trees being famous destinations for breathtaking fall scenery. Therefore, for travelers seeking the beauty of autumn leaves, it’s wise to consider mid-October as the ideal time to set your travel plans. 

Recommended Activities:

South Korea offers a wide range of activities to enjoy during the beautiful autumn month of October. Here are some of the best activities and experiences to consider:

1. Visit Palaces and Temples: Explore historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul or the ancient temples of Gyeongju. The autumn backdrop adds charm to these cultural treasures. Right now, the four major palaces in Seoul are free of admission in celebration of the Chuseok holidays. Click here to find out more about it. 

2. Explore Han River: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Han River in Seoul, where the cool autumn breeze and changing leaves provide a picturesque backdrop. Also, after a time around the Han River, you can also take a relaxing boat cruise on the Han River to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. 

3. Korea Spa(Jjimjilbang): Relax and unwid in a traditional Korean spa, which is particularly enjoyable when the weather is cooler. This is an activity recommended from autumn to winter. 

4. Enjoy Autumn: Witness the stunning fall foliage by taking hikes in national parks such as Seoraksan, Naejangsan, and Bukhansan. The colorful leaves create breathtaking landscapes. Autumn is one of the best times to explore these mountains and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery. 

5. Visit the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserves: Visiting the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve in the fall is a really great idea and it is my personal best recommendation. During the autumn season, this beautiful wetland area transforms into a mesmerizing landscape adorned with golden reeds. The best time to experience the full splendor the reed fields is typically from mid-October to early November. 

Events and Festivals​

In October, there are many cultural and food festivals to participate. Some popular events include the Andong Mask Dance Festival, the Busan International Film Festival, and the Seoul International Fireworks Festival. And although Halloween is not as significantly celebrated in Korea, it has gained popularity in recent years among the younger generation and in urban areas. So you may find Halloween themed events, parties, and decorations in shopping districts and some places may host Halloween-themed parties as well. 

~ October Events and Festivals List ~

The list is organized in [Date/Location/Event or Festival Name] form. It is an unfinished list, and I will be adding more or changing details when new information is received. So please keep in touch for more information!:)

Oct 1st – 2nd / Taean / 1st TAEAN International Mother Nature Environment Art Festival

Oct 2nd – 9th / Andong / Andong International Mask Dance Festival

Oct 4th – 8th / Yangyang / Yangyang Salmon Festival

Oct 5th – 7th / Seoul / Seoul International Jewelry, Gem, Accessories Show

Oct 7th / Seoul / Seoul International Fireworks Festival

Oct 7th – 8th / Busan / Busan International Rock Festival

Oct 8th – 22nd / Jinju / Jinju Lantern Festival

Oct 9th / Seoul / Dobong Hangul Festival

Oct 12th – 15th / Gangneung / Gangneung Coffee Festival

Oct 13th – 15th / Sunchang / Sunchang Jang Festival

Oct 13th – 15th / Dongnae / Dongnae Fortress History Festival

Oct 13th – 15th / Busan / Yeongdo Bridge Festival

Oct 13th – 15th / Suwon / Suwon Illustration Korea

Oct 18th – 22nd / Icheon / Icheon Rice Culture Festival

Oct 22nd / Seoul / Korea-Japan Festival

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Lovin Korea

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