15 Best Places to See Autumn in Seoul (+ Hidden Gems)

I travel to South Korea mostly during spring and summers, but autumn has to be my favorite time to visit.

It’s when the city’s palaces, parks, and mountains turn red, orange, and gold.

I’ve experience autumn in Seoul twice—once during peak foliage and once at the tail end—and both trips were completely worth it.

This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Seoul in autumn, including the best spots for fall foliage and tips to plan your trip.

If you’re new to South Korea, make sure to read my travel guide to South Korea.

When is Autumn in Seoul in 2025?

View of wooden stairs leading up to Haneul Park entrance, surrounded by autumn foliage in Seoul, Korea, with a cityscape visible in the background.

The official Korea autumn forecast for 2025 has not yet been released (I’ll update here once it is).

A more accurate forecast will be released a few weeks before as weather changes.

On average, autumn in Seoul typically starts in late October and peaks in the first week of November.

In 2024, however, autumn in Seoul and throughout South Korea was delayed by 1-2 weeks due to warmer weather.

I was in Seoul from November 8-20 in 2024, and the colors were most vibrant towards the 16th.

Keep an eye out on the Korea Tourism website for updated Seoul foliage forecasts.

Where You’ll See The Most Foliage:

A cityscape of Seoul, South Korea, featuring N Seoul Tower perched atop Namsan Mountain in the background. The foreground showcases a busy road lined with vibrant yellow autumn trees, contrasting against the cloudy sky and urban buildings.

While you’ll see fall leaves everywhere, the main areas to see autumn in Seoul in its peak beauty are:

Parks
Palaces in Seoul
Universities
Along and across the Han River
Bridge overpasses

Make sure to check the weather and plan accordingly, as a rainy day can cause trees to lose all their foliage.

🎥 Watch my Autumn in Seoul vlog:

Why You Have to Plan a Trip to Seoul During Autumn in 2026 🍁 + Hidden Gems 😍

Watch this video on YouTube

1. Namsan Park (N. Seoul Tower)

A scenic autumn view of Namsan Park in Seoul, South Korea, showcasing a lush hillside covered in vibrant fall foliage. The colors range from deep greens to warm oranges and reds, with a communications tower perched at the top of the hill. A glass reflection slightly overlays the image, adding a dreamy effect to the cityscape in the background.

Cable car arriving at Namsan Tower station in Seoul, Korea, surrounded by autumn trees and overlooking the city.

Namsan Park is where N. Seoul Tower is located. It’s the biggest park in Seoul, and where you’ll be able to get an aerial view of foliage.

➡️ Recommendation: Take the Namsan cable car for the best view up and down Namsan Park.

I visited three times during my autumn trips.

Colorful love locks attached to a metal railing at Namsan Park in Seoul, South Korea, with Namsan Mountain and the city skyline in the background. The locks symbolize love and commitment, creating a vibrant foreground against the autumn foliage covering the hillside.

The photos shown here were taken on November 11, 2024, when the park was at its most colorful.

Make sure to walk around for various panoramic views of the city with trees covered with autumn leaves.

2. Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden

Vibrant autumn leaves on trees in Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden, Seoul, Korea, with a traditional pavilion by a serene pond.

The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most popular palaces to experience autumn in Seoul.

🍂 Read my full guide to visiting the Secret Garden during autumn.

Visitors wearing traditional hanbok exploring Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden in autumn, Seoul, Korea, with colorful foliage and traditional architecture.

I visited near the end of autumn, and fall foliage was still everywhere.

You have to purchase separate tickets to the Secret Garden, which are limited daily, so it’s best to book ahead online.

If they’re sold out, come back to check in case spots pop up, or go early on the day of to see if they have any availability for that day.

3. Seoul Forest

Pathway in Seoul Forest during autumn with a mix of green and yellow foliage, and a person sitting on a bench in the distance.

Seoul Forest is one of my favorite parks in Seoul, and is especially scenic during autumn in Seoul.

Tall ginkgo trees with bright golden-yellow leaves line a pathway in Seoul Forest during autumn. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting a warm glow on the ground while a few people walk beneath the trees. The contrast between the golden foliage and the surrounding green trees creates a picturesque seasonal scene.

You’ll see colorful metasequoia and ginkgo trees everywhere you go.

Relax on the grass areas or sit on one of the many benches.

Whether you go to Seoul early or late, you’ll likely still be able to catch some foliage at Seoul Forest.

4. Haneul Park

A pathway lined with pampas grass leading towards the sunset at Haneul Park in Seoul, Korea.

Haneul Park is one of the five parks located within the World Cup Park and is situated on top of a hill along the Han River.

If you visit a bit earlier in autumn, you’ll get to see the Pampas Grass Festival with fields of light silver eulalia grass and fiery-pink kochia flowers:

A field of vibrant pink and red kochia bushes stretches across Haneul Park in Seoul, South Korea, showcasing the beauty of autumn. The cloudy sky above adds depth to the scene, while the park's walking paths and scattered trees create a peaceful natural ambiance.

I’ve visited twice now, and the best autumn in Seoul view I’ve seen is on top of the stairs at the entrance of the park:

View of Haneul Park in autumn, Seoul, Korea, showcasing vibrant foliage in shades of red, orange, and green with city skyscrapers in the background and wooden paths winding through the landscape.

5. Yonsei University

A historic stone building on the Yonsei University campus in Seoul, South Korea, surrounded by neatly trimmed hedges and trees displaying vibrant autumn colors. A statue stands on a pedestal in the foreground, with students and visitors strolling around the well-maintained garden. The background features modern buildings and a cloudy sky, creating a contrast between tradition and contemporary architecture.

During fall in Seoul, many campus buildings like Yonsei University are covered with green, orange, yellow, and red leaves.

Golden ginkgo trees line the walkway at Yonsei University during autumn, with fallen leaves carpeting the ground. Vibrant red and orange foliage adds contrast to the scene, while a few people stroll through the crisp autumn air. The background features campus buildings, blending nature with the urban environment.

You’ll see fall leaves at the entrance walkway, on buildings, and in the park on campus. Some of the leaves looked neon-colored:

A scenic view of Yonsei University’s campus in autumn, with trees showcasing vibrant red, orange, and green leaves. A classic lamppost stands among the foliage, adding to the tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. The soft, diffused light filters through the branches, enhancing the natural beauty of the season.

Yonsei University is also the filming location of many kdramas like True Beauty if you’re a kdrama fan like me.

6. Seokchon Lake

A scenic autumn view of Seokchon Lake in Seoul, South Korea, with golden and reddish-hued tree branches in the foreground. The calm lake reflects modern high-rise buildings and the clear blue sky, while a small boat floats on the water.

Seokchon Lake is more locally known and is surrounded by a walking path.

During autumn in Seoul, the trees lining the pathway are covered in fall leaves.

Lotte World Tower stands tall against a clear blue sky, reflecting sunlight in its sleek glass exterior. Seokchon Lake in the foreground mirrors the autumn hues of surrounding trees, with a few paddle boats floating on the water. Golden and red foliage frames the scene, adding warmth to the modern cityscape.

It’s right next to the Lotte World Tower, but you can view it from the park.

If you can, stay til nighttime as well when the park is lit up.

I took these photos on November 9, though I can’t tell if I visited right before or righter after its peak.

7. Seonyudo Park

A scenic autumn landscape in Seonyudo Park, Seoul, featuring trees with golden, orange, and red foliage. A winding stone staircase leads up through the park, surrounded by neatly trimmed bushes and benches. A wooden swing sits under a tree, adding a peaceful charm to the fall setting.

Seonyudo Park is a hidden gem in Seoul, and I’m so glad I came across it.

This park sits on an island in the middle of Han River and is especially vibrant and worth visiting during autumn.

A wooden viewing deck with metal railings sits elevated among trees displaying autumn colors in Seonyudo Park, Seoul. A leafless tree with twisted branches stands on the platform, creating a striking contrast against the golden foliage in the background. The stairs leading up to the deck are surrounded by vibrant red, yellow, and green leaves, adding to the seasonal beauty.

You’ll see plenty of diverse flora and trees throughout the whole park, as well as benches and resting areas.

I remember getting asked to take a big group photo of others, and two of the ajummas ran after me with fruit as a thank you. 🥹

8. Yeouido Hangang Park

A wooden picnic table with attached benches sits on a patch of grass covered in fallen autumn leaves at Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. A tree with deep red foliage frames the left side of the image, while modern glass and steel buildings rise in the background. The open green space contrasts with the urban skyline, creating a peaceful autumn setting.

Most of the parks along the Han River in Seoul will be covered with autumn foliage.

A main one is Yeouido Hangang Park, which is also a popular night spot.

I didn’t grow up seeing autumn foliage, and seeing it everywhere around the river amazed me.

While at Yeouido Hangang Park, try to spot the cutest statue:

A bronze statue of a young boy and girl sitting on a stone bench at Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. The boy makes a peace sign with his fingers, while the girl rests her chin on her hands, smiling. Behind them, autumn foliage and high-rise buildings create a picturesque urban backdrop.

9. Yeouido Park

A park in Yeouido, Seoul, covered in golden-yellow ginkgo trees during autumn, with fallen leaves blanketing the ground. A lamppost stands along a winding pathway where two people walk beneath the foliage, framed by modern skyscrapers in the background.

Not to be confused with Yeouido Hangang Park is Yeouido Park, located on a vertical strip right before Hangang Park.

You’ll also see a statue of King Sejong the Great:

A side view of the King Sejong the Great statue in Yeouido Park, Seoul, with intricate engravings on its base featuring Hangul script. The statue is surrounded by trees showcasing autumn foliage in shades of yellow, orange, and red, under a cloudy sky.

This park is a popular area for workers in nearby buildings like KBS.

While a smaller park, it’s where I saw some of the most yellow-colored gingko trees.

10. Deoksugung Palace

A scenic autumn view at Deoksugung Palace in Seoul, Korea, featuring a tree-lined pathway with people strolling through. The traditional palace architecture with a blue-tiled roof contrasts with the vibrant red, yellow, and green foliage. Sunlight filters through the pine and maple trees, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.

Another popular palace to visit during fall in Seoul is Deoksugung Palace.

I’d say it has some of the most foliage from the other palaces (besides Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden).

This palace is located in downtown Seoul and is only 1,000 won.

A traditional Korean palace building with an ornate green and red roof stands against a clear blue sky at Deoksugung Palace in Seoul. Golden ginkgo trees line the pathway, where visitors stroll and take in the autumn scenery. The contrast of historical architecture and nature creates a peaceful, picturesque setting.

You’ll see tree-lined walking paths throughout the palace area, though they’ll turn at different times.

➡️ Read my guide for visiting all 5 royal palaces in Seoul (plus a bonus one).

11. Deoksugung Doldam-gil

A lively autumn scene along Deoksugung Doldamgil (Stone-wall Road) in Seoul, where people stroll beneath golden foliage. Banners and signs hint at a local cultural event, with market stalls and yellow umbrellas lining the path. The mix of warm fall colors and the bustling crowd creates a vibrant seasonal atmosphere.

Just right next to Deoksugung Palace is Deoksugung Doldam-gil, or Stone-Wall Road.

During autumn, you’ll see this street lined with stalls and people walking.

12. Samcheong-dong Streets

A charming street in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, lined with ginkgo trees displaying vibrant yellow and green autumn leaves. Traditional Korean restaurants and modern cafés sit beneath the foliage, with people strolling along the sidewalk, enjoying the seasonal scenery. The blue sky and warm sunlight add to the inviting atmosphere of this cultural district.

Another popular walking street during autumn in Seoul is in Samcheong-dong, where the Bukchon Hanok Village is located.

A street in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, lined with ginkgo trees displaying vibrant yellow autumn leaves. People stroll along the sidewalk, some taking photos, while traditional and modern buildings, including cafés and shops, line the road. The crisp blue sky contrasts beautifully with the fall foliage.

You’ll see plenty of autumn tree-lined streets with cozy cafes and shops.

The streets are small with less car traffic, and a popular spot for autumn photo-ops.

13. Naksan Park

A scenic view of the Naksan Fortress Wall Trail in Seoul during autumn, with the stone wall curving along a narrow walking path. Vibrant fall foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow contrasts against the cool gray stones. In the background, mountains and the city skyline are visible under a soft evening sky.

A park you can’t miss during autumn is Naksan Park, located right next to Ihwa-dong Mural Village.

It’s also walkable from the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP).

You’ll get multiple viewpoints throughout the park.

A nighttime view of the Naksan Fortress Wall Trail in Seoul, illuminated by warm pathway lights. The historic stone wall lines the left side of the trail, while trees with autumn foliage glow under decorative string lights. In the background, the city skyline stretches into the distance, creating a striking contrast between tradition and modernity.

I highly recommend going in the afternoon and staying til nighttime if you can.

I’ve visited this park at night many times and always felt safe.

It’s one of the most popular places in Seoul at night to walk the fortress trail and to see night views.

14. Oil Tank Culture Park

A rust-colored, repurposed oil tank structure sits among trees with autumn foliage at Oil Tank Culture Park in Seoul, South Korea. Tall grasses and trees with red, yellow, and green leaves surround the industrial space, blending nature with urban redevelopment. A winding path leads towards the structure, inviting visitors to explore the unique cultural park.

Another hidden gem in Seoul is Oil Tank Culture Park, located right across the World Cup Stadium.

A descending wooden staircase with black railings leads towards a repurposed oil tank structure at Oil Tank Culture Park in Seoul, South Korea. The surrounding landscape is filled with autumn grasses and trees, showcasing red, yellow, and green hues. The overcast sky adds a moody atmosphere to the industrial yet scenic setting.

The area used to be an oil tank reservoir and is now a renovated park and cultural complex with cafes, museums, and halls.

You’ll see autumn foliage and silver grass throughout the park.

And to get to the Oil Tank Culture Park, walk through the Maebongsan Forest Walkway:

A peaceful wooden walkway meanders through the Maebongsan Forest in Seoul, Korea, surrounded by tall pine trees and autumn foliage. The sturdy railings guide visitors along the elevated path, offering a tranquil nature walk amid golden and rust-colored leaves. The forest floor is blanketed with fallen needles, adding to the serene, natural atmosphere.

15. Bridges in Seoul

Some of the best autumn in Seoul views I saw were at walking bridges near the Han River.

Many of them left me in awe.

Here were some of them:

Munhwa Pedestrian Bridge

A modern pedestrian bridge with a winding red path curves through lush greenery, surrounded by trees with vibrant autumn foliage. High-rise apartment buildings loom in the background, blending urban architecture with the natural beauty of the park. A few pedestrians in the distance add a sense of scale and movement to the serene walkway.

Seonyugyo Bridge

Seonyudo Bridge

A pedestrian bridge with a curved design extends over a calm river, leading to a park filled with trees showcasing vibrant autumn colors. The park is surrounded by modern high-rise buildings and residential apartments, contrasting nature with urban development. The reflection of the trees and buildings on the water adds depth to the serene cityscape.

Farther Day Trips to See Autumn

Here are a few of the most popular day trips to see autumn foliage outside of Seoul:

Nami Island, which is especially popular to see yellow gingko trees during its peak.
Jeonju Hanok Village, one the most popular cities to visit during fall and spring.
Naejangsan National Park, the farthest day trip, but one of the top places during autumn.
Mt. Seorak National Park for some group autumn hiking.

A woman in a dark gray turtleneck sweater walks along a rocky trail in a forest filled with vibrant autumn foliage. The trees display a mix of red, orange, yellow, and green leaves, creating a colorful canopy above her. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting a warm glow on the forest floor covered in fallen leaves.

I loved experiencing autumns in Seoul, and I’m sure I’ll be back again.

I hope this was helpful and that you have a great time seeing the autumn foliage in Seoul!

Book before you visit Seoul:

Ride from the airport: schedule a pickup | airport bus | express train
Book discounted hotels in Seoul (what I use)
Most popular day tours in Seoul
Best local Korea sim card (200k booked) or eSIM card