November is one of the best months to visit South Korea, offering crisp autumn air, stunning fall foliage, and a lineup of cultural festivals.
The crowds of peak fall in October begin to thin, and the temperatures remain cool and pleasant before winter sets in. Whether you’re exploring Seoul’s vibrant city life, hiking through colorful mountains, or indulging in seasonal Korean cuisine, November is a magical time to experience South Korea.
Chapter Trail
Weather in South Korea in November
November marks the transition from autumn to winter, bringing cooler temperatures and dry conditions.
- Seoul & Northern Korea: 3°C – 13°C (37°F – 55°F) – Crisp and dry, with golden leaves falling.
- Busan & Southern Korea: 8°C – 17°C (46°F – 63°F) – Milder temperatures near the coast.
- Jeju Island: 10°C – 18°C (50°F – 64°F) – Pleasant but cooler at night.
- Mountain Regions (Seoraksan, Jirisan): -5°C – 10°C (23°F – 50°F) – Colder, with early snowfall at higher elevations.
☀ Sunshine: 6-8 hours per day.
🍁 Foliage Peak: Early to mid-November in Seoul & southern regions.
❄ Snow Possibility: Late November in the mountains.
Tip: Bring warm layers, as evenings can get chilly, especially in Seoul and mountainous areas.
Why You Should Visit South Korea in November
- Stunning Fall Colors – Autumn foliage lasts into mid-November.
- Pleasant Weather – Cool but not freezing, great for sightseeing.
- Fewer Crowds – A quieter time before winter tourism picks up.
- Cultural Festivals – Unique events like the Seoul Lantern Festival.
- Great Food Season – Warm comfort foods and seasonal specialties.
🚨 Things to Keep in Mind:
- The weather can drop quickly, so bring warm layers.
- Days are shorter, with sunsets around 5:30 PM.
- Some ski resorts may not be fully operational until late November or early December.
What to Do and Expect
- See the Autumn Foliage – Visit Nami Island, Seoraksan National Park, or Gyeongbokgung Palace for breathtaking colors.
- Explore Seoul’s Palaces – Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung look stunning against the autumn backdrop.
- Hike in National Parks – Seoraksan, Naejangsan, and Jirisan are must-visit destinations for fall hiking.
- Attend Lantern Festivals – Enjoy the dazzling displays of the Seoul Lantern Festival.
- Visit Busan’s Beaches – The weather is still mild, perfect for coastal walks at Haeundae Beach.
Events and Festivals
- Seoul Lantern Festival (Early November, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Seoul) – A mesmerizing display of illuminated lanterns floating on the stream.
- Busan Fireworks Festival (Early November, Busan) – One of Korea’s most spectacular fireworks shows.
- Gwangju Kimchi Festival (Early November, Gwangju) – A celebration of Korea’s favorite dish, with workshops and tastings.
Conclusion
A trip to South Korea in November is a perfect mix of autumn beauty, cultural festivals, and mild weather. Whether you’re admiring fall foliage, indulging in seasonal Korean dishes, or experiencing local celebrations, it’s a fantastic time to visit before the winter chill sets in.
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