2025 South Korea Ginkgo Forecast: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Viewing Spots and Peak Seasons in Seoul and Busan

As autumn breezes paint the leaves in fiery reds and warm golds, South Korea gears up for one of its most magical seasonal spectacles. Imagine sunlight streaming through streets lined with ginkgo trees, turning them into shimmering golden tunnels that feel straight out of a dream. In this guide, we’ve gathered the freshest forecasts and top spots to catch the ginkgo glow in 2025, from the bustling streets of Seoul to the coastal charm of Busan. Ready to chase that breathtaking sea of gold? Let’s go!

Dreaming of strolling beneath South Korea’s glowing ginkgo trees at their most radiant? The key is perfect timing! Usually, the ginkgo season lights up the landscape from late October through mid-November. But since the weather can shift a bit each year, it’s a smart move to check the latest updates from the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) before you plan your visit. That way, you’ll be sure to catch those golden leaves in all their glory—right at their peak!

Heading to South Korea this fall? Seoul is hands down the easiest city to explore, especially when it comes to catching those breathtaking ginkgo trees in full golden glory. Hop on the subway, and in no time, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the city’s most enchanting autumn views—perfect for soaking up that cozy seasonal vibe.

Visiting Seonggyungwan University is like stepping straight into the heart of the Joseon Dynasty! Right in front of Myeongnyundang, you’ll find two majestic ginkgo trees, each over 400 years old, standing tall as living witnesses to Seoul’s rich history. Come autumn, their vast canopies burst into a stunning golden hue, creating a striking contrast against the timeless Confucian lecture hall. The sight is truly mesmerizing and leaves every visitor spellbound. As sunlight filters through the golden leaves, it bathes the historic buildings in a warm, inviting glow—perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.

• Address: 53 Myeongnyun 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Transportation: Take Line 4 to Hyehwa Station, then enjoy a short walk to the campus.
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (extended to 6:00 PM from April to October)

If you’ve just finished soaking up the cool vibes of Seongsu-dong, a short stroll will lead you into a magical world—Seoul Forest. This isn’t just any park; it’s like stepping into a storybook forest right in the heart of the city. Come autumn, the ginkgo trees shed their leaves, blanketing the pathways in a stunning golden carpet that seems to stretch forever. The park is spacious with plenty of playgrounds, perfect for families looking to unwind. Spend a relaxed afternoon here, surrounded by the shimmering fall colors and the gentle rustle of leaves—pure urban bliss!

If you’re craving a fresh way to soak in Seoul’s stunning fall foliage, Yeouido Park should be at the top of your list. While wandering beneath the iconic ginkgo-lined avenues is a treat, the real highlight awaits in the skies. Launching in 2024, the “Seoul Month” hot air balloon experience offers a magical ride up to 130 meters, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the park blanketed in golden leaves, with the Han River sparkling gracefully beyond. It’s a breathtaking vantage point that feels almost otherworldly — a true feast for the eyes and soul!

• Hot Air Balloon Cost: Around ₩25,000 for adults, with special rates for kids and seniors.
• Getting There: Hop on Metro Line 9 to National Assembly Station or Line 5 to Yeouido Station for easy access.

If you’re in Seoul and looking for a perfect spot to unwind this autumn, Olympic Park should be at the top of your list. While the stunning ginkgo trees steal the show with their brilliant golden leaves, there’s a charming surprise waiting for you—the soft, dreamy pink muhly grass that paints the park in delicate shades of rose. This mix of warm gold and gentle pink creates a scenic wonderland that’s perfect for a leisurely day out. Why not rent a bike and take your time exploring? The park’s vastness means there’s always a new beautiful corner to discover, making every ride a little adventure.

If you’ve got some extra time on your hands, why not venture out to the nearby suburbs? Here, you’ll discover not just the beautiful ginkgo trees but also Korea’s iconic, fiery maple reds. It’s the perfect way to soak in the full spectrum of autumn’s colors and truly enjoy the best of Korea’s fall foliage!

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the scenes of classic Korean dramas, Nami Island is your perfect escape. This charming island transforms with each season, but come autumn, its Ginkgo Avenue steals the show. Imagine walking beneath towering ginkgo trees, their golden leaves forming a stunning tunnel that glows as sunlight filters through—pure magic! Beyond a peaceful stroll, why not kick off your visit with a thrilling zip-line ride straight onto the island? It’s the most stylish and exciting way to start your Nami adventure!

• Address: 1024 Bukhangangbyeon-ro, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
• Zip-lining: Around ₩49,900, which covers both the zip-line experience and your entry to Nami Island.

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate autumn leaf experience in South Korea, Naejangsan National Park should be at the top of your list. Famous for its stunning “Five Color Maples,” this park offers a breathtaking display of fiery reds that will leave you in awe. But here’s a little secret—don’t miss the ginkgo tunnel right at the entrance. The golden ginkgo leaves perfectly complement the vivid maples, creating a dazzling tapestry of color that’s nothing short of magical. It’s truly one of the best spots in the country to soak in the full glory of fall.

• Getting There: Hop on a train or express bus from Seoul or Busan to "Jeongeup Station," then catch a city bus straight to Naejangsan.

If you’re dreaming of soaking up South Korea’s most stunning fall landscapes without breaking a sweat, Seoraksan National Park is your go-to destination. This iconic mountain range transforms into a kaleidoscope of fiery reds and golden yellows each autumn, and the best way to experience it? Take the cable car up to Gwongeumseong. From there, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of maple trees blazing in red and ginkgo leaves glowing like liquid gold, all nestled in the valleys below. The scene stretches out like a living, breathing oil painting—truly a feast for the eyes!

• Cable Car Ticket Price: Expect to pay around ₩15,000 for a round-trip ticket if you’re an adult. Prices can change, so be sure to check the official website before you go.

If you’re craving a serene escape to soak in the true spirit of autumn, Yuejing Temple on Mount Wutai should be at the top of your list. This nearly 1,400-year-old sanctuary is nestled amidst peaceful trails lined with towering pines and graceful cypresses. As autumn unfolds, these paths transform into a vibrant tapestry of yellows, greens, and fiery reds. The air carries the soothing scent of sandalwood from the temple, mingling with the rich, earthy fragrance of the forest floor. Strolling here isn’t just a walk—it’s a soul-refreshing experience, a quiet haven where you can fully appreciate the stunning hues of maple and ginkgo leaves in all their seasonal glory.

If you’re heading to the palace to soak in the stunning ginkgo trees, you simply can’t skip trying on a Hanbok. Picture yourself dressed in a vibrant Hanbok, wandering through the palace grounds blanketed with golden leaves—it’s like stepping right into your own K-drama scene, every angle radiating timeless elegance! Plus, here’s a bonus: wearing a Hanbok gets you free admission to both Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. To help you plan, here’s a quick rundown of rental prices from some popular shops:

• Basic Hanbok: Expect to pay about ₩15,000-₩24,000 for a 4-hour rental.
• Themed or More Detailed Hanbok: These tend to be a bit pricier, starting around ₩20,000-₩30,000.
• Secret Garden at Changdeokgung: While your Hanbok grants you free entry to Changdeokgung Palace, visiting the breathtaking Secret Garden requires a separate ticket and a guided tour reservation.

Whether you’re leisurely strolling along Seoul’s golden pathways or quietly admiring autumn leaves in an ancient temple, autumn 2025 in Korea is calling you to craft unforgettable, romantic moments!

Gamcheon Culture Village: Busan City Sightseeing Day Tour: Haeundae Coast (Capsule) Train / Yacht Experience / Gamcheon Culture Village / Taejongdae
Gyeongju Day Tour: Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Day Trip (Departing from Busan)
Central District Day Tour: Seoul City / Everland / Nami Island / Alpaca World / Gangchon Rail Park Private Car Day Tour (with Driver)