Seasonal Travel Recommendations for First-Time Visitors to Korea
Korea has something special to offer in every season, so whenever you visit, there’s always something fun to do! But if it’s your first time here, these season-by-season travel tips might help you choose the best time to visit.
1. Spring (Early April)
Spring in Korea is warm and sunny, making it the perfect season to visit. If you have Korean friends, they might tell you to avoid summer because of the heat and humidity. In spring, however, the weather is ideal, and the parks and mountains are full of blooming flowers.
Cherry Blossom Spots: In Seoul, Seokchon Lake, near Lotte World, is a popular spot for cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors during peak bloom. For a quieter option, check out Seongbuk Stream near Hansung University Station, where a cherry blossom festival is held every year.
Travel Tip: Since spring is a peak travel season, it’s best to book your flights and accommodation in advance. Besides cherry blossoms, you can also enjoy a nice walk in Seoul’s Namsan or along the Han River parks.
2. Fall (Late October to Early November)
Due to climate change, the fall foliage season has shifted slightly, starting later than it used to. In 2024, the leaves began changing colors in early November, rather than mid-October. You’ll find beautiful autumn foliage not just in Seoul, but across many other cities in Korea.
Best Places for Fall Colors: The palaces in Seoul, such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, offer stunning views of the foliage against traditional architecture. Outside of Seoul, other cities’ mountains and parks are also gorgeous in the fall.
Travel Tip: Late October to early November has comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 23°C to 15°C (73°F to 59°F). If you visit when the palaces have evening events, you can enjoy the mix of autumn colors and historic buildings under soft lighting.
3. Summer (Late August to Mid-September)
Summer in Korea is hot and humid, but if you want to avoid the peak summer heat, early September is a good choice. Although September is technically fall, the temperatures often stay around 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 89°F) until late in the month.
Recommended Destinations: Busan is a popular beach destination in the summer. If you can drive, Jeju Island is a must-visit for its unique dialect, local food, and beautiful nature. The beaches there are clear and refreshing, perfect for swimming. If you want to skip a flight, Sokcho in Gangwon Province is also a good option.
Travel Tip: Summer in Korea has strong UV rays, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat. Rain showers can also be frequent, so pack a small umbrella just in case!
4. Winter (Mid-January and Beyond)
Korean winters are cold and dry due to Siberian winds. People sometimes joke about not visiting in winter, but the season has its charms! Korea has various ski resorts, and it’s a great place to try winter sports at a reasonable cost.
Ski Resorts and Snowy Spots: Pyeongchang in Gangwon Province has popular ski resorts like Alpensia and Phoenix Park. If it snows, visiting Seoul’s palaces or a traditional hanok village gives you a unique experience of winter in Korea.
Travel Tip: Warm clothing is essential! Winter can be intense for those who dislike the cold, but the season’s quiet charm, cozy tea houses, and snow-covered scenery are worth experiencing.
Each season in Korea has something different and unique to offer. Plan your trip to match the season, and enjoy the many faces of Korea throughout the year!
