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When talking about autumn in South Korea, Pham Trong Nghia (33 years old), who lived and worked in the country for many years, can't help but feel nostalgic. For him, autumn is not just about the changing weather, but also about the time when Korean nature dons a vibrant, lively cloak. It's the season of golden and red leaves, the season of warm traditional festivals, and also the season when, with every step along the streets, one's heart is carried away by the colors of the leaves.
For Nghia, autumn is not just about the changing weather, but also about the time when Korean nature dons a vibrant, lively cloak.
Autumn is a special season in Korea.
“After a hot summer, autumn arrives like a refreshing breeze, bringing coolness and comfort. The weather is crisp, the sun is bright, and the landscape is filled with golden and red leaves, creating a rare and poetic atmosphere,” Trong Nghia shared. Passionate about photography, every autumn he takes his camera everywhere, capturing the beautiful moments of Korean nature. For him, the beauty of autumn in this country lies not only in the natural scenery but also in the image of people living in harmony with the new season. People often wear beautiful clothes, strolling in the autumn air, their hearts filled with joy and positive energy.
Everyone seemed to be delighted by the dreamlike beauty of autumn.
According to Nghia, a Korean autumn wouldn't be complete without a trip to the most beautiful autumn foliage viewing spots like Naejangsan, Goesan, and Gangchon Seom. Naejangsan National Park, in particular, is always a top choice for its breathtaking autumn scenery. "I'll never forget the feeling of stepping into Naejangsan; it was like entering a colorful garden. The entire forest was covered in vibrant red, green, yellow, and orange maple leaves. Climbing the mountain and looking down, the landscape was like a multicolored painting. Especially, the path leading into Naejangsan had two rows of maple leaves joined together to form an arch; I felt small walking amidst the brilliant foliage, like I was in another world," he recounted with enthusiasm.
To fully experience autumn in Korea, Nghia recommends traveling from the north to the south. Due to Korea's weather characteristics, the leaves in the north change color earlier, from the end of October, while in the south they only begin to turn golden in the first week of November. By mid-November, the entire area is covered in red and yellow leaves, at their most beautiful for only about two short weeks.
"If possible, plan carefully, ask locals for advice, or consult experts for predictions on the best times so you don't miss any moments," Nghia shared his experience.
Autumn in South Korea is the ideal time to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the serene beauty of the landscape.
Must-see autumn activities
Besides its beautiful scenery, autumn in Korea is also an opportunity for Nghia to freely participate in interesting activities and experience traditional culture. One of his simple yet poetic pleasures is walking along the streets, watching the leaves fall, breathing in the fresh air, and admiring the streets covered in colorful foliage. For those who love nostalgia, visiting the royal palace and trying on a traditional hanbok is a wonderful way to feel the rhythm of old Korea amidst a tranquil and ancient atmosphere.
Besides, autumn is also the perfect time to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee, taking in the autumn scenery through the window at quiet cafes, where just a warm cup of coffee can bring peace and tranquility to the soul.
Walking amidst the autumn scenery and the cool weather, one's heart also feels calm.
Autumn is also the season of unique traditional festivals, offering locals and tourists the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere. One of Nghia's unforgettable memories is a contest held at the traditional market near his home, organized by the local government to encourage more people to visit traditional markets amidst the growing popularity of modern supermarkets. He excitedly recounted: “That year, everyone participated in the contest by simply going to the traditional market, taking photos, and posting them on social media. The photo with the most likes would win. I was lucky enough to win second prize, and I realized that through this contest, we not only had more fun moments but also bonded more closely with each other.”
Everyone would surely be moved by this scene.
Korean autumn - The season of the most beautiful moments.
Autumn in South Korea is the most beautiful time of year, lasting only about 15 days, but enough for Nghia and countless other tourists to experience the magnificent beauty that nature bestows. From the yellow, red, and orange hues of maple leaves to romantic roads, traditional festivals, and outdoor activities, autumn in Korea is a time that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
Autumn in South Korea is a time that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
For Nghia, each autumn return to South Korea is an opportunity to immerse himself in peaceful moments, in the country's blend of ancient and modern spaces. The time may be short, but the feelings left behind will never fade, like a beautiful memory film that will forever remain in his mind.
