2025 Korea Maple Viewing Forecast: Seoul, Busan, and Naejangsan – The Ultimate Guide to Capturing the Most Beautiful Autumn Colors

As autumn sweeps across Korea, cities like Seoul and Busan transform into breathtaking canvases of fiery reds and glowing oranges. The crisp, sweet air sets the perfect backdrop for a seasonal spectacle that’s nothing short of magical. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Korea’s best maple leaf spots for 2025 — from bustling cityscapes to serene mountain trails — ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of those stunning crimson and golden ginkgo tunnels.

Ready to dive into the breathtaking world of autumn colors in South Korea? Thanks to shifting climate patterns, this year’s maple leaf season is arriving a bit later than usual—giving you extra time to plan that perfect getaway! We’ve gathered the latest forecast for the country’s top mountain spots, so you can catch the foliage at its absolute best.

• Seoraksan (설악산): The trailblazer of Korea’s fall colors! Expect the first hints of red and gold around September 30, with peak brilliance lighting up the landscape by October 23. Want to be among the first to witness the magic? Seoraksan is your go-to.
• Odaesan (오대산): Mark your calendar for early October—colors begin to shift on October 6, reaching their peak by October 17. Its gentle hills make it an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a leisurely hike surrounded by vibrant leaves.
• Bukhansan (북한산): The beloved backyard mountain for Seoulites, where the foliage starts turning on October 16 and hits its peak by November 4. Perfect for easy day hikes without leaving the city’s doorstep.
• Jirisan (지리산): Korea’s second tallest peak offers grand, sweeping views of autumn’s finest palette. The leaves begin their transformation on October 13, culminating in a spectacular peak around October 23.
• Naejangsan (내장산): A true legend in the maple leaf world! Colors start to change on October 23 and reach their full glory by November 11. Don’t miss the famous maple leaf tunnel—it’s like stepping into a fairytale.
• Gyeryongsan (계룡산): Near Daejeon, this hotspot starts to show its autumn hues on October 16, peaking by November 1. A must-visit for those craving stunning foliage just a short trip away.
• Hallasan (한라산): The grand finale on Jeju Island! Watch the leaves turn starting October 14, with peak colors around October 28. Experience the island’s unique autumn charm in full bloom.

As autumn rolls in, Seoul transforms from the lively energy of summer into a stunning canvas painted with warm, elegant shades. Whether you’re exploring the historic charm of ancient palaces or meandering through the city’s hip neighborhoods, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Korean maple leaves at every turn. If you’re dreaming of a perfect autumn getaway, there’s no better place than Korea to soak in those unforgettable fall colors!

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Imagine vibrant red palace walls set against golden ginkgo trees and blazing red maple leaves—autumn at Gyeongbokgung Palace feels like stepping into a living masterpiece! Don’t miss the area around Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, where the pond perfectly mirrors the fiery foliage, making it a photographer’s dream. For an extra special experience, rent a hanbok and wander these scenic grounds—it’s the perfect way to soak up the timeless romance of the season. The peak maple leaf colors usually arrive between late October and early November.
• Changdeokgung Secret Garden: Known as the royal retreat of old, Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden is arguably the best spot in Seoul to admire autumn colors. Since visits here require reservations, it feels like you’re stepping into a hidden treasure. Each pavilion and maple tree is thoughtfully placed, creating a stunning canvas of autumn hues that will leave you truly mesmerized.
• Samcheong-dong: Take a leisurely stroll from Bukchon Hanok Village down into Samcheong-dong’s charming alleys, where traditional hanoks meet quirky cafes and artisan shops. The streets come alive in autumn with vibrant reds and yellows, making it a perfect spot to sip coffee by a cozy window and watch the world go by on a crisp fall afternoon.
• Deoksugung Stonewall Walkway: Despite the old legend warning couples not to walk here lest they part ways, this stonewall path remains a favorite among locals. In autumn, the walkway is transformed into a stunning golden tunnel thanks to the towering ginkgo trees. When sunlight filters through, the dance of light and shadow creates one of Seoul’s most iconic—and romantic—autumn scenes.
• Seoul Forest Park: Want to stretch your legs and soak in a sea of autumn colors right in the heart of Seoul? Seoul Forest Park is your go-to spot. With a mix of maples, ginkgoes, and metasequoias, the park bursts into a vibrant palette of reds, yellows, and greens. During the "Seoul Forest Maple Viewing" season, you’ll find families and couples picnicking and enjoying the gentle autumn sunshine.
• Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower: Hop on the Namsan cable car and watch as Seoul’s cityscape gradually turns into a warm autumn canvas. Once you reach the top, the panoramic views from N Seoul Tower showcase a city wrapped in colorful maple leaves—a beautiful reminder of Namsan’s enduring charm from the Joseon era to today.
• Hongdae Shopping District: Autumn adds a special glow to the youthful energy of Hongdae. The ginkgo-lined "Hongik-ro" street in front of Hongik University becomes a golden avenue, blending a touch of autumnal elegance with the area’s vibrant vibe. While you’re out shopping, be sure to look up and soak in this seasonal spectacle—it’s a fleeting beauty not to be missed!

• Bukhansan: If you want to soak up autumn colors without spending hours on the road, Bukhansan should be your go-to. It’s one of the earliest places near Seoul where the maple leaves start to turn, and the sight of rugged granite cliffs set against vibrant red foliage is simply breathtaking. Whether you have half a day or a full day, hiking here offers a refreshing escape and a true taste of Korea’s fall beauty.
• Seoraksan: Seoraksan is nothing short of iconic when it comes to autumn in Korea. By late September, the mountain bursts into a fiery spectacle of red maples, making it a must-visit for leaf lovers. The dramatic rock formations and waterfalls framed by those blazing leaves look like a scene straight out of a masterpiece. Just a heads-up: this place gets busy during peak season, so be sure to book your transport, tickets, and cable car rides ahead of time. Joining a guided day tour can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable!

Think you need to head north to catch the best autumn colors? Think again! Busan, South Korea’s vibrant second city, offers a stunning fall experience all its own. With its open harbor vibes and warm coastal breeze, Busan’s autumn is refreshingly different. While the peak foliage here arrives a bit later than in Seoul, the magical blend of fiery leaves against mountain backdrops and the sparkling ocean makes Busan a must-visit destination for leaf peepers looking for something truly special.

• Jirisan Mountain: Stretching across three provinces, Jirisan Mountain is a must-visit for anyone near Busan looking to soak in stunning autumn colors. This grand mountain offers some of the most pristine and expansive maple foliage in the southern region. Picture rolling hills blanketed in vibrant reds and oranges—a truly awe-inspiring natural spectacle that captures the essence of fall’s beauty.
• Naejangsan Mountain: When it comes to Korea’s maple legends, Naejangsan Mountain stands out as the “First Mountain of Red Maples.” Unlike the fleeting cherry blossoms, the maple season here lasts longer and is reliably timed, making it easier for travelers to plan their visits. Don’t miss the famous “Maple Tunnel” right at the entrance—a magical pathway where fiery red leaves arch overhead, filtering sunlight and creating an unforgettable, almost surreal experience. It’s a bucket-list spot for autumn lovers visiting Busan.

Autumn in Korea isn’t just about the vivid reds of maple trees; the golden ginkgo leaves also paint the landscape in warm, glowing hues. From the historic stone wall road at Deoksugung Palace in Seoul to charming ginkgo-lined streets across the country, this golden wave is another breathtaking sight of the season. For your autumn trip, why not blend both maple and ginkgo viewing? This way, you get to enjoy two of Korea’s most iconic fall colors in one trip! We hope this cozy guide inspires you to plan your perfect autumn adventure.

Quick tip from the editor: Korean autumn days and nights can be quite different in temperature, so layering your clothes is a smart move. Since the maple season attracts many visitors, it’s wise to book flights, hotels, and tickets to popular spots well in advance. Also, check the latest 2025 Korea maple forecast about a week or two before your trip to catch the leaves at their absolute peak!

Busan SEA LIFE: Busan SEA LIFE Aquarium / Brickman Exhibition Tickets
Gamcheon Culture Village: Busan City Sightseeing Day Tour: Haeundae Coast (Capsule) Train / Yacht Experience / Gamcheon Culture Village / Taejongdae, etc.
Gyeongju World: Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Day Trip (Departing from Busan)