October is often called the best month to visit Korea. The summer heat and rain are gone, the skies are usually clear and blue, the air is fresh, and the autumn leaves begin to turn. It is also a month full of festivals. The catch is that everyone knows it, so popular places and hotels are busy, especially at weekends.
What the weather is like
Early October in Seoul is warm in the afternoon and cool in the morning; by the end of the month the mornings are properly chilly. It is one of the driest and sunniest months of the year. Busan and Jeju stay a few degrees warmer. In the mountains it is noticeably colder, especially at the top. See our seasons and weather guide.
What to pack
- Layers: T-shirts and a light jacket early in the month, a warmer jacket or sweater by late October.
- Good walking or hiking shoes if you want to see the leaves in the mountains.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for those clear days.
Our packing list has a full autumn checklist.
Things to do in October
The first autumn leaves
The colours start at the top of the high mountains, such as Seoraksan, in early to mid October, and move south and downhill from there. Most cities and parks are at their best from late October into November. See our autumn leaves guide.
Busan International Film Festival
Asia's biggest film festival is held in Busan in early to mid October, with screenings, outdoor events and stars on the red carpet around Centum City and Haeundae. See our Busan guide.
Seoul fireworks
The Seoul International Fireworks Festival lights up the Han River at Yeouido on a Saturday evening in early autumn, and draws enormous crowds. People claim their spot on the riverbank in the afternoon.
Lantern and mask festivals
The Namgang Yudeung lantern festival in Jinju fills the river with lanterns in October, and the Andong mask dance festival takes place around late September to early October. Our festival calendar lists this year's dates.
Hiking and day trips
With cool, clear weather, October is the best month for hiking and day trips: Bukhansan near Seoul, Nami Island, Gyeongju and Jeju's trails are all at their best. See our 10-day itinerary for ideas.
Holidays and busy dates
- 3 October: National Foundation Day, a public holiday.
- 9 October: Hangul Day, celebrating the Korean alphabet. Try our learn Hangul page before you go.
- Chuseok, the harvest holiday, falls in late September or early October depending on the lunar calendar. Trains and roads are packed and some shops close for a day or two.
- Weekends in October are among the busiest of the year at famous spots, so go on weekdays if you can.
FAQ
Is October a good time to visit Korea?
Yes, it is one of the best: clear, dry and comfortable, with autumn leaves and many festivals. Book hotels early because it is popular.
When do the autumn leaves turn in Korea?
From early to mid October in the high mountains, and from late October into November in cities and parks.
What should I wear in Korea in October?
Layers: a T-shirt with a light jacket early in the month, and a warmer jacket or sweater towards the end.
