South Korea in October brings together the perfect mix of comfortable weather, spectacular fall foliage, and exciting festivals that make it an excellent time for travelers to visit this fascinating country.
Is October a Good Time to Visit South Korea?
Is October a good time to visit South Korea? Absolutely! The autumn foliage turns mountains, parks, and city streets into a colorful canvas of reds and golds. The comfortable temperatures make outdoor exploration pleasant, without the summer heat or winter chill.
The festive atmosphere comes alive during this month with traditional celebrations across the country. From lantern festivals to mask dances, South Korea tourism in October showcases the rich cultural heritage at its best.
October also falls outside the peak tourist seasons of summer and cherry blossom spring, meaning slightly better hotel rates and less crowded attractions. The clear skies and low humidity create perfect conditions for photography and sightseeing.
Weather in South Korea in October
South Korea weather in October is characterized by clear skies, crisp air, and comfortable temperatures.
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Temperature: 7°C (45°F) at night to 22°C (72°F) during daytime
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Humidity: 50-60% on average, making the air feel fresh and comfortable
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Chance of Rain: 5-10%, making it one of the driest months
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Daylight: 11-12 hours of daylight per day
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Sunrise: Between 6:30-6:50 AM (gets later as the month progresses)
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Sunset: Between 5:30-6:00 PM (gets earlier toward November)
Also Read: After Dark in South Korea: The Ultimate Nightlife Experience
Things To Do in South Korea in October
Things to do in South Korea in October range from outdoor adventures to cultural immersion. The mild weather and festive atmosphere create ideal conditions for exploring both natural landscapes and urban attractions.
Experience Fall Foliage
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Where: Nami Island, Seoraksan National Park, Naejangsan National Park, Gyeongju
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Why: These locations offer the most stunning autumn landscapes with dramatic color transformations.
The peak foliage period occurs between mid to late October, when maple and ginkgo trees create spectacular scenes. The contrast between the blue sky and the vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves makes for incredible photographs.
Explore Food Markets
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Where: Gwangjang Market (Seoul), Jagalchi Market (Busan), Tongin Market (Seoul)
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Why: Autumn brings seasonal specialties and food festivals that showcase Korea’s culinary heritage.
Fall harvests bring an abundance of seasonal ingredients to Korean markets. Street vendors sell roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes that warm your hands on cool autumn days. Many markets offer special fall menus featuring mushroom dishes, persimmon desserts, and hearty stews.
Also Read: 25 Best Things To Buy In South Korea That Will Transform Your K-Shopping Experience
Go Hiking
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Where: Bukhansan National Park, Jirisan National Park, Hallasan Mountain, Daedunsan
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Why: The comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage make October ideal for hiking adventures.
Hiking trails in South Korea in October offer breathtaking panoramic views with far less humidity than summer months. Many parks install special viewing platforms just for the autumn season. The national parks become busier on weekends as locals head out to enjoy the fall colors, so weekday visits are recommended for a more peaceful experience.
Also Read: How to Book South Korea Visa Appointment?
Places to See in South Korea in October
Nami Island
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Location: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea
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Entry Fee: ₩16,000 (Rs 1,000) for adults, ₩8,000 (Rs 500) for kids
Nami Island becomes a photographer’s paradise in October with its famous tree-lined paths exploding in autumn colors. The island’s central walkway, lined with tall metasequoia trees, creates a tunnel of red and gold leaves that has become an iconic image of Korean autumn.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
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Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Entry Fee: ₩3,000 (Rs 180) for adults, free for children under 6
This grand palace from the Joseon Dynasty shines in autumn as its gardens fill with colorful maple trees. The changing of the royal guard ceremony takes place three times daily (except Tuesdays) against the backdrop of fall colors. Visitors can rent traditional Korean hanbok outfits from numerous shops around the palace.
Also Read: South Korea Visa Extension for Indian Travelers
Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden
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Location: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Entry Fee: ₩8,000 (Rs 480) for adults (Secret Garden), ₩2,000 (Rs 120) for kids
This UNESCO World Heritage site features a “secret garden” that comes alive with autumn colors in October. The garden’s ponds reflect the red and gold leaves, creating picture-perfect scenes. The palace complex demonstrates traditional Korean architecture and landscaping principles that work in harmony with the seasonal changes.
Bukchon Hanok Village
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Location: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Entry Fee: Free
This traditional Korean village in the heart of Seoul looks particularly charming against the backdrop of autumn leaves. The narrow alleyways lined with traditional Korean houses (hanok) offer unique views of both modern Seoul and fall foliage. Many houses now serve as cultural centers, teahouses, or boutiques where visitors can experience traditional Korean arts.
Also Read: South Korea in February: Your Ultimate Travel Guide!
South Korea Events in October
Andong Mask Dance Festival
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Date: Early October (typically first week)
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Place: Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do
This cultural festival celebrates Korea’s traditional mask dance (talchum) with performances that blend comedy, satire, and social commentary. Visitors can watch professional performances, participate in mask-making workshops, and try on traditional masks themselves. The festival grounds feature food stalls selling regional specialties from Andong, including the famous Andong soju and salted mackerel.
Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival
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Date: Mid-October (typically second week)
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Place: Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do
The Namgang River transforms into a sea of light as thousands of colorful lanterns float on the water surface. These lanterns commemorate the soldiers who died defending Jinju during the Japanese invasions in the 16th century. Visitors can make their own lanterns and set them afloat with personal wishes.
Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival
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Date: Late October or early November
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Place: Seoul Plaza, Seoul
This hands-on festival celebrates Korea’s most famous food by inviting visitors to join in massive kimchi-making sessions. Professional instructors teach proper techniques for preparing and fermenting this iconic Korean side dish. The festival has a charitable aspect, with much of the kimchi being donated to those in need for the winter months.
Also Read: South Korean Famous Food: 20 Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Things to Know Before You Visit South Korea in October
South Korea travel tips for October include booking accommodation well in advance, especially for popular destinations like Seoul and Busan. The month sees higher domestic tourism due to the beautiful weather and fall foliage, particularly around national parks and famous autumn viewing spots.
What to Pack for South Korea in October?
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Item |
Why You Need It |
|---|---|
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Sweaters/Cardigans |
Essential for layering as temperatures can shift dramatically between day and night |
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Light Jacket/Windbreaker |
Protection against cool morning and evening air, especially in mountain areas |
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Comfortable Walking Shoes |
You’ll walk a lot, particularly on hiking trails to see fall foliage |
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Warm Socks |
Keeps feet comfortable when temperatures drop in the evening |
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Scarf |
Versatile item for extra warmth or style that packs easily |
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Small Umbrella |
Though rain is rare, it’s good to be prepared for occasional showers |
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Power Adapter (Type C/F) |
Korean outlets use 220V with Type C/F plugs |
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Reusable Water Bottle |
Stay hydrated during hikes and city exploration |
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Travel Insurance Papers |
Medical care is excellent but can be expensive without insurance |
Also Read: South Korea Itinerary 7 Days – Your Complete Travel Guide
What to Wear in South Korea in October?
What to wear in South Korea in October centers around layering. Mornings and evenings can be quite cool (around 10-12°C), while afternoons warm up to a pleasant 18-22°C. Koreans dress fashionably but modestly, so pack smart-casual outfits for cities and more functional clothing for outdoor activities.
Getting Around South Korea in October
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Subway/Metro: Extensive networks in Seoul, Busan, and other major cities make urban exploration easy. Stations have English signage, and fares are reasonable (₩1,250-₩1,450 for basic trips).
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KTX High-Speed Train: Connects major cities quickly and comfortably. Seoul to Busan takes just 2.5 hours, compared to 5+ hours by car. Book tickets in advance through the Korail website or at stations.
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Intercity Buses: Extensive network reaches smaller towns and rural areas not served by trains. Express buses are comfortable with wide seats and reasonable prices.
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Taxis/Ride-hailing: Readily available in cities but can be expensive. The Kakao T app works in English and functions like Uber, allowing cashless payment.
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Car Rentals: International driving permits are required for Indian tourists. Driving is on the right side, and navigation apps work well, but parking in cities can be challenging and expensive.
Where to Stay in South Korea in October?
Accommodation options in South Korea in October cater to every type of traveler, from luxury seekers to budget explorers.
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Beach Lovers: Busan offers beautiful beaches and vibrant city life. The weather remains mild enough for coastal walks, though swimming might be chilly.
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Paradise Hotel Busan – Starts from ₩250,000/night (Rs 15,500)
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Park Hyatt Busan – Starts from ₩300,000/night (Rs 18,600)
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Haeundae Centum Hotel – Starts from ₩180,000/night (Rs 11,200)
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Nature Seekers: Sokcho or Jeonju provide easy access to national parks with spectacular fall foliage.
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Kensington Hotel Seorak – Starts from ₩150,000/night (Rs 9,300)
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Lahan Hotel Jeonju – Starts from ₩120,000/night (Rs 7,450)
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The Shilla Jeju – Starts from ₩350,000/night (Rs 21,700)
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Culture Enthusiasts: Seoul or Gyeongju for historic sites, museums, and traditional experiences.
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Four Points by Sheraton Seoul – Starts from ₩160,000/night (Rs 9,900)
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Hilton Gyeongju – Starts from ₩210,000/night (Rs 13,000)
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Hanok 24 Guesthouse Gyeongbokgung – Starts from ₩90,000/night (Rs 5,600)
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Luxury Travelers: Seoul’s top hotels offer world-class amenities and excellent city views.
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Signiel Seoul – Starts from ₩400,000/night (Rs 24,800)
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The Shilla Seoul – Starts from ₩350,000/night (Rs 21,700)
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Grand Hyatt Seoul – Starts from ₩280,000/night (Rs 17,400)
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Digital Nomads: Hongdae (Seoul) or Seomyeon (Busan) neighborhoods have great cafes and co-working spaces.
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RYSE, Autograph Collection – Starts from ₩180,000/night (Rs 11,200)
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L7 Hongdae by Lotte – Starts from ₩140,000/night (Rs 8,700)
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Arban Hotel Busan – Starts from ₩110,000/night (Rs 6,800)
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Also Read: South Korea With Kids: Your Gateway to K-Pop Dreams and Ancient Wonders
What to Eat in South Korea in October?
Autumn brings special seasonal dishes that showcase harvests and warm flavors perfect for cooler weather.
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Songpyeon (Rice Cakes): These half-moon shaped rice cakes are traditionally eaten during Chuseok, which sometimes falls in early October. Try at Tosokchon Samgyetang in Seoul.
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Grilled Mackerel: Fall is the best season for mackerel in Korea when the fish are fattest. Try at Gwangjang Market food stalls in Seoul.
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Kimchi Jeon (Kimchi Pancake): This savory pancake is perfect for cool autumn days, especially with makgeolli (rice wine). Try at Bukchon Son Mandu in Seoul.
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Hotteok (Sweet Pancake): These sweet, filled pancakes are a popular street food that warms your hands and stomach. Try at Ssiat Hotteok in Busan’s BIFF Square.
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Roasted Chestnuts & Sweet Potatoes: Street vendors with portable ovens sell these autumn snacks throughout cities. Find them in Seoul’s Myeongdong shopping district.
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Crab Dishes: October marks the start of crab season in Korea. Try fresh preparations at Jagalchi Market in Busan.
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FAQs
Is October a good time to visit South Korea?
Yes, October is one of the best months to visit South Korea. The weather is pleasant, autumn foliage is at its peak, and numerous festivals take place across the country. Tourist crowds are moderate, and prices are reasonable compared to peak seasons.
How hot is South Korea in October?
South Korea is not hot in October. Daytime temperatures typically range from 15-22°C (59-72°F), making it comfortably warm during the day. Evenings and mornings are cooler at 7-12°C (45-54°F).
What is the average temperature in South Korea in October?
The average temperature in South Korea in October ranges from 7°C (45°F) at night to 22°C (72°F) during the day. Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F), while southern regions like Busan are slightly warmer at 17°C (63°F).
Can I do sightseeing in South Korea in October?
October is perfect for sightseeing in South Korea. The clear skies and comfortable temperatures make outdoor exploration pleasant. Most attractions operate with normal hours, and the beautiful fall foliage enhances historical sites and natural landscapes.
What to wear in South Korea in October?
For South Korea in October, pack layers that can be added or removed throughout the day. Bring light jackets, sweaters, long pants, and comfortable walking shoes. A scarf is useful for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in mountainous areas.
Are tourist attractions open in South Korea in October?
Yes, virtually all tourist attractions are open in October. Some may have reduced hours as winter approaches, but major sites maintain regular schedules. Check for special autumn night openings at palaces and gardens that offer evening foliage viewing.
Is it safe to travel to South Korea in October?
South Korea is very safe for tourists year-round, including October. The country has low crime rates, excellent public transportation, and good healthcare facilities. Basic precautions like protecting valuables and being aware of your surroundings are sufficient.
How to plan a South Korea trip in October?
Book flights and accommodation 2-3 months in advance, as October is popular for domestic tourism. Research autumn foliage forecasts, which vary slightly each year. Include some flexibility in your itinerary for weather changes, and mix urban experiences with nature visits.
What are the best places to visit in South Korea in October?
The best places to visit in South Korea in October include Seoraksan National Park, Naejangsan National Park, Nami Island, Gyeongju, and Seoul’s palaces. These locations offer spectacular autumn foliage, comfortable sightseeing conditions, and seasonal festivals.
