South Korea Tours in October 2026

What our customers ask about South Korea Tours in October 2026

• What special events or festivals can I experience in South Korea during October?

  October showcases South Korea's vibrant festival season with key events in Seoul and Jeonju. The Jeonju Bibimbap Festival runs during the third week offering local food tastings and cooking demonstrations of Korea's famous rice dish. Fall foliage festivals draw visitors to Mt. Seorak National Park where maple and ginkgo trees display rich autumn colors. The Seoul Lantern Festival illuminates the Cheonggyecheon Stream with traditional and modern light displays starting in early October. A TourRadar traveler shared "October offered spectacular autumn foliage on our travels making every stop incredibly photogenic."

• What are the best places to see fall foliage in South Korea during October?

  Seoraksan National Park leads the list of premier fall viewing spots especially around Jujeongol Valley where maple trees create a natural color show. The grounds of Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju pair centuries-old architecture with golden autumn leaves. Naejangsan National Park near Baegyangsa Temple draws photographers and nature enthusiasts. A TourRadar traveler noted "our October visit to Seoraksan was timed perfectly - the fall colors were simply magical and our stay at the Intercontinental Pyeongchang made the experience even more special."

• What is the weather like in South Korea during October?

  October brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures across South Korea. Seoul sees daytime readings of 65-70°F (18-21°C) while Busan stays warmer at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Rainfall is minimal making it ideal for outdoor activities. Mountain areas like Seoraksan National Park cool down to 45°F (7°C) in the evenings. TourRadar travelers confirm the month offers "perfect weather for sightseeing." Pack both light and warm layers to handle temperature changes between cities and elevation levels.

• Which hotels are recommended for staying in South Korea during October?

  Top accommodation choices include the AMID Hotel in Seoul's Insadong district providing easy access to seasonal events. The Grand Josun Busan combines ocean views with autumn scenery while the Lahan Select Hotel in Gyeongju puts guests near fall foliage spots and historic sites. The InterContinental Pyeongchang offers prime mountain vistas during peak fall colors. A TourRadar guest noted "The Grand Josun Busan was particularly impressive with its proximity to both city attractions and nature spots."

• How crowded are tourist attractions in South Korea during October?

  October ranks as a peak tourism month given the mild weather and autumn colors. Expect significant crowds at major sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bulguksa Temple particularly on weekends. TourRadar travelers at the Grand Josun Busan report "Popular sites like Gamcheon Culture Village were quite crowded in October." Plan early morning visits to main attractions and secure accommodations well ahead especially in Seoul and Busan.

• What special autumn foods and drinks should I try in South Korea during October?

  October introduces seasonal Korean foods worth seeking out. Seoul's Gwangjang Market serves warming fish cakes (eomuk) and roasted sweet potatoes (goguma). Near Gyeongbokgung Palace restaurants offer pumpkin porridge (hobakjuk) and fresh roasted chestnuts. TourRadar travelers highlight the seasonal makgeolli (rice wine) in Jeonju Hanok Village served with fall-specific side dishes. Local markets feature fresh persimmons and Korean pears at their peak ripeness.