Post Contents
- South Korea and Seoul weather in October at a glance for Seoul weather in october south korea weather in October
- Best time to visit South Korea in October
- Seoul in October festivals and October in Korea night glamour
- Visit South Korea for palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village in the fall
- Local October flavours and cosy markets
- Travel tips for a seamless trip to Korea from Seoul to Busan and Jeju Island
- F.A.Qs:
- Final Thought
South Korea and Seoul weather in October at a glance for Seoul weather in october south korea weather in October
South Korea and Seoul weather in October at a glance for seoul weather in october south korea weather in october
For most travellers, the first question is simple: how’s the weather? Seoul weather in October and South Korea weather in October typically settle into crisp mornings, mild afternoons, and evenings that feel distinctly chilly without being harsh. Expect an average high of around 20°C and an average low of about 10°C, with an overall average temperature in Seoul of roughly 15°C.
This is the kind of October weather in Korea that lets you design days around outdoor beauty and late-night city glamour. It’s warm enough in the sun for a light jacket, yet cool enough after dark that you’ll appreciate a cashmere layer or tailored coat, especially when you linger at viewpoints.
Temperatures ranging from sunny days to polished evenings in Seoul
In October in Seoul, you’ll notice temperatures ranging between gentle daytime temperatures and brisk night air—perfect for travellers who like to explore without summer intensity. Humidity in Seoul drops compared with late summer, so the air feels drier and the city often looks freshly defined, as if edges sharpen and colours deepen.
That clearer sky is part of autumn’s magic: mountains appear closer, rooftops glint, and photographs feel more cinematic with less haze. If you’re planning early starts for palaces or a hike near Seoul, the cool air is invigorating rather than draining.
Rainfall, chance of rain, and a layered packing logic
Rainfall is usually modest throughout October, but there is still a chance of rain on a few days—often short, light spells rather than day-long downpours. Think of it as weather that keeps gardens glossy and streets reflective, rather than one that disrupts plans.
- Day layer: a fine knit, silk shirt, or breathable blouse under a light trench.
- Evening warmth: a wool coat, scarf, or a tailored blazer that stays polished at dinner.
- Accessories: compact umbrella, sunglasses for bright afternoons, and comfortable leather trainers for cobbled lanes.
Air quality in autumn is often improved compared with peak summer humidity, but it can vary. For daily updates, check the Korea Meteorological Administration, local weather stations, or apps such as AirVisual and Naver Weather—your concierge can also provide trusted guidance each morning.
Best time to visit South Korea in October
Best time to visit South Korea in October for autumn in Korea with best time to visit south korea in october 2025 autumn in korea
Many seasoned travellers call it the best time to visit South Korea in October 2025, and it’s easy to see why. October in South Korea brings comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and the most flattering light of the year—ideal for exploring, shopping, and lingering outdoors without feeling rushed.
Autumn in Korea also feels curated by nature: gingko avenues turn butter-gold, maples blaze, and city parks become calm, walkable galleries. If you prefer a refined rhythm—late breakfasts, unhurried museum afternoons, and gentle hikes—this is one of the best months of the year to visit Korea.
Foliage timing from the beginning of October to late October near Seoul
Foliage is a moving feast. The beginning of October often brings the first colour shifts at higher elevations, while mid-month deepens the palette in the capital’s parks. By late October, many of Seoul’s hills and temple grounds look richly painted, especially after a cool night and a bright morning.
Elevation matters: the higher you go, the earlier leaves change. This is why a near-Seoul escape into the mountains can feel like stepping ahead in the season, while the city lingers in a softer, slower transition.
Namsan and Bukhansan for curated views and gentle pacing
For skyline views, Namsan Seoul Tower is one of the best places to see the city’s autumn glow without committing to a strenuous day. Go mid-afternoon for warm light, then stay as the city turns on its evening sparkle—October weather is perfect for that slow transition.
If you want national parks close to the capital, Bukhansan National Park offers trails that can be designed to suit your energy. Choose a shorter route with a guide and finish with a calm café stop, rather than pushing for a summit; it’s a luxury to move with care. If you’re comparing options, Seoraksan National Park is spectacular for colour, though it’s more of a full-day or overnight trip.
For context, early November can be slightly cooler with a deeper, moodier tone, and spring in Korea feels brighter and more blossom-focused. October’s gift is balance: elegant light, outdoors that feel inviting, and crowds that are present but manageable with thoughtful planning and a premium itinerary.
Please note that holidays in Korea in October can sometimes affect traffic and hotel demand. National Foundation Day (3 October) is one of the key public holidays in Korea, and it can subtly shift prices and crowd patterns—another reason to plan with expert support.
Seoul in October festivals and October in Korea night glamour
Seoul in October festivals and October in Korea night glamour for october in korea seoul lantern festival seoul international fireworks festival
October in Korea is especially memorable after dark, and Seoul in October offers a nighttime atmosphere with rare confidence. Two signature moments—the Seoul Lantern Festival and the Seoul International Fireworks Festival—add crafted glamour to the season, pairing perfectly with cooler air and dressed-up evenings.
Dates vary from year to year, so check official calendars as you plan your travel. If your trip falls in the right week of October, these nights can become the emotional centre of your stay, not just an item on a list.
Seoul Lantern Festival: warmth, style, and local insight
The lantern festival is all glow and gentle wonder: illuminated sculptures, reflections along the water, and a slow-moving crowd that feels more like a community stroll than a rush. An expatriate I spoke with described joining locals here and feeling unexpectedly together—strangers offering directions, sharing snacks, and laughing at the same small surprises despite the crisp air.
Arrive just before sunset to watch the lights come to life, then take your time. For a style that stays practical, think fine layers, sleek boots, and a scarf you’ll actually enjoy wearing in photos.
The Seoul International Fireworks Festival is a luxurious spectacle when viewed properly. The classic scene plays out around Yeouido, with crowds gathering early, while select rooftops and premium dining rooms offer calmer sightlines and easier exits. If you prefer a quieter setting with a panoramic feel, consider a reserved area near Ttukseom Hangang Park, where the city looks particularly cinematic at night.
- Arrive smart: book a car or arrange a pre-arranged transfer so you’re not negotiating with taxis during peak congestion.
- Dine first: secure restaurant reservations with a clear timeline, then move to your viewpoint.
- Exit with ease: leave a few minutes before the finale ends, or linger for a late cocktail while crowds thin.
Handled this way, festival nights feel seamless rather than stressful—designed for comfort, trust, and that calm confidence you should always have when travelling well.
Visit South Korea for palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village in the fall
Visit South Korea for palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village in fall with visit south korea seoul weather in october gyeongbokgung bukchon hanok village
Visiting South Korea in October is to experience culture at its most flattering, and Seoul’s weather in October makes palace days comfortable rather than exhausting. A classic high-end itinerary begins at Gyeongbokgung in the morning when the light is clean and the air is fresh, then flows into Bukchon Hanok Village as the lanes warm slightly.
Entry fees are modest, but the premium upgrade is time and insight: an expert-guided tour can uncover symbolism, court etiquette, and architectural details you might otherwise walk past. It turns a beautiful place into a personal story you’ll remember.
Gyeongbokgung in cooler daytime temperatures with an expert touch
October’s cooler daytime temperatures make the courtyards and gates feel expansive rather than sun-baked. If you’re choosing a pass, the Discover Seoul Pass can streamline entries and transport planning—especially helpful if you’re balancing palaces with museums and a tight schedule.
Give yourself permission to go slowly. Sitting for ten minutes, listening to the city soften beyond the palace walls, can be as restorative as any spa appointment.
Hanbok rentals, etiquette, and a stylish route through Bukchon
Premium hanbok rentals now offer tailored fits, refined fabrics, hairstyling, and discreet photo assistance—ideal for an elegant autumn photo shoot that remains comfortable as the light shifts. A fashion influencer shared that renting a hanbok in Bukchon brought quiet confidence: warmer layers beneath, thoughtful colours that echoed the leaves, and images that felt timeless rather than costumed.
As you explore Bukchon Hanok Village, keep your etiquette gentle and precise. Remove shoes in traditional interior spaces when required, use both hands when giving or receiving items, and photograph respectfully—these are residential lanes, and your care is part of what makes the experience feel genuinely local.
Local October flavours and cosy markets
Local October flavours and cosy markets when it’s warm enough by day for korea travel tips seoul street food october evenings hotteok chestnuts
Korea travel tips often focus on sights, but in October, the city’s soul is edible. Seoul street food and October evenings belong together: roasted chestnuts warming your palms, hotteok split open to release brown sugar and nuts, and sizzling jeon that makes the cool air feel inviting.
It’s warm enough by day to keep plans light—gallery, shopping, a park stroll—then as the temperature drops, the city becomes a little more intimate. This is when markets feel especially atmospheric, and when you can uncover small luxuries in simple things.
What to taste in Seoul when the air turns cool after sunset
Start with roasted chestnuts from a street cart, then try hotteok as a dessert-like pause between neighbourhoods. If you’re curious, add tteokbokki for heat, and a crisp cup of hot broth or tea to balance it—street food here is as much about comfort as flavour.
A food connoisseur once told me their favourite Seoul memory was “accidentally” discovering a tiny market lane, then lingering over fresh chestnuts and jeon while the night cooled. It felt cosy and indulgent at once—proof that luxury is often a mood you create, not a price tag.
Market-and-bar pairing for a crafted, balanced evening
For a high-end rhythm, pair the energy of a market with a calm finish: a crafted cocktail lounge, a discreet hotel bar, or a traditional tea house where you can settle in and let the city slow down. This contrast—bright stalls followed by soft lighting—makes the night feel deliberate rather than accidental.
- Cash readiness: Some street markets are cash-only, so carry small bills in Korean won.
- Hands-free: a slim crossbody keeps you elegant and practical while eating on the move.
- Concierge support: ask your hotel for local recommendations and the best time to visit.
Service charges are often included, but rounding up or leaving a small cash tip is appreciated—another small way to travel with care.
Travel tips for a seamless trip to Korea from Seoul to Busan and Jeju Island
Travel tips for a seamless trip to Korea from Seoul to Busan and Jeju Island with travel tips planning a trip to Korea trips from seoul busan jeju island
The best travel tips are the ones that protect your time. For a seamless trip to Korea, planning begins with a comfortable arrival and a base that reduces decision fatigue—especially in Seoul, where a few smart choices can make the whole stay feel effortless.
If you’re travelling around Korea beyond the capital, October is forgiving: cooler air, reliable transport, and that calm sense that the country is ready to be explored. This is where you can design an itinerary that moves beautifully from city elegance to coastal ease.
Arrivals via Incheon and where to stay in Seoul for October
From Incheon International Airport, the AREX train is efficient, while limousine buses are comfortable and direct to major hotel zones. For many high-end travellers, a private transfer is worth it after a long flight—trusted, quiet, and tailored, with support if your landing time shifts.
For location, Myeongdong and Insadong are reliable central hubs. They place you close to palaces, dining, and festival routes, making evenings simpler and reducing the need for constant travel planning across the city.
Trips from Seoul, KTX to Busan, and a weather-smart Jeju add-on
For trips from Seoul that feel fresh without being tiring, the Garden of Morning Calm is a classic, especially when evening illuminations meet autumn colour. It’s an easy way to enjoy the “best places to see” foliage without committing to long hikes every day.
When you’re ready to extend, KTX train tickets make Seoul to Busan fast and comfortable; if you want a cultured pause between Seoul and Busan, add Gyeongju for heritage sites and a slower tempo. To visit Busan in October is to enjoy seafood, sea views, and a slightly different light—cooler, saltier, and restorative.
- Book ahead: reserve KTX seats at peak times, especially around public holidays in Korea.
- Pack light layers: Seoul or Busan evenings can cool quickly, even after sunny days.
- Jeju Island note: coasts can feel windier; check the average wind and bring a light layer for comfort.
If you’d like to imagine routes and visuals before you commit, browse our Trip gallery for design-forward inspiration.
F.A.Qs:
Is Seoul cold in October?
Seoul isn’t usually deeply cold in October, but evenings can feel chilly, especially after sunset. Daytime often calls for light layers, while nights may call for a wool coat or scarf. The crisp air is part of the season’s charm and makes outdoor sightseeing feel energising rather than humid.
What should I wear in Seoul in October?
Dress in polished layers: a light trench or blazer for daytime, with a warmer coat, scarf, or knit for evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for palace grounds and hanok lanes, and a compact umbrella is wise for occasional showers. Aim for breathable fabrics that remain refined in cooler conditions.
Is South Korea good to visit in October?
Yes—October is widely considered one of the best months to visit, thanks to comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and vivid autumn colour. It’s ideal for outdoor viewpoints, cultural sites, and night festivals. With thoughtful planning around key dates and popular evenings, the trip can feel both effortless and richly atmospheric.
What season is it in South Korea in October?
October is autumn in South Korea. You’ll see changing foliage, clearer skies, and a noticeable coolness in the evenings. The season suits travellers who want a calm, elegant mood—perfect for palaces, markets, and scenic walks—without the intensity of summer heat or mid-winter cold.
Final Thought
Visiting Korea in October leaves a different kind of souvenir—less something you buy, more something that quietly settles into you. One luxury traveller once described an evening cruise on the Han River, watching the skyline burn amber and rose, and realising they’d stopped checking the time. The city’s pace held them in a softer rhythm, as if Seoul itself was offering reassurance.
Seoul in October has a sensory clarity: cooler air that makes you breathe more deeply, footsteps that sound gentler on old lanes, and a sky that feels newly rinsed. The weather in October doesn’t just shape outfits and plans; it shapes memory, sharpening small details—steam curling from street food, lantern light on faces, the hush that arrives when a palace courtyard empties.
What lasts, too, is togetherness. The warmth of standing among locals at a festival, the simple trust of being guided with care, and the personal confidence that grows when a journey is designed to feel seamless rather than strenuous. Long after the photos, you remember how it felt to move well through a place that was once unfamiliar.
And perhaps that is October’s real gift in Seoul: it doesn’t demand that you do more—it invites you to notice more, and to let South Korea become part of your own evolving story, ready to be returned to in another season, whenever curiosity stirs again.
