Must-Visit Korea Travel Destinations for Late Fall and Early Winter in November & December
November and December in Korea bring a magical transition from vibrant autumn leaves to the first snowflakes of winter. Whether you’re interested in scenic hikes, city lights, or winter festivals, these destinations offer the best of both seasons. Here are six popular travel spots across Korea that perfectly capture the seasonal beauty of late fall and early winter. Plan your trip to Korea and experience the charm of this unique time of year!
1. Seoul: Bugak Skyway & Palgakjeong Pavilion – Seoul Scenic Drive and Fall Foliage Views
- Address: 267 Bugaksan-gil, Pyeongchang-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: Bugak Skyway and Palgakjeong Pavilion are famous in Seoul for a scenic autumn drive where you can enjoy stunning fall colors and Seoul’s nightscape. The pavilion’s viewing deck offers panoramic city views, combining vibrant autumn leaves with a wintery glow.
- Must-Do: Capture photos from Palgakjeong with the vibrant colors of Seoul’s late autumn cityscape as a backdrop.
- TIP: Visit at sunset to catch the brilliant city lights alongside the setting sun.
2. Gangwon-do: Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch – Korean Mountain Pastures and Snowy Winter Views
- Address: 483-32 Daegwallyeongmaru-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
- Highlights: In November, the ranch shimmers with silver pampas grass, while December transforms the fields into a snowy wonderland. Stroll through the vast mountain pastures, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the peaceful winter landscape.
- Must-Do: Families will love the sheep-feeding experience and scenic walk through the trails.
- TIP: Temperatures can drop quickly, especially in December, so dress warmly!
3. Jeonju: Hanok Village – Traditional Korean Houses Amid Autumn and Winter Landscapes
- Address: 99 Girindaero, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
- Highlights: The Hanok Village is a perfect blend of autumn leaves and traditional Korean architecture. In November and December, soft snowfall on the hanok rooftops gives the village a nostalgic charm.
- Must-Do: Try on a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) and explore traditional Korean dishes for an immersive experience.
- TIP: Plan a weekday visit to avoid crowds and don’t forget warm layers for comfort!
4. Gyeongju: Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto – UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Fall and Winter
- Bulguksa Temple Address: 385 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Seokguram Grotto Address: 873-243 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Highlights: These UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase stunning autumn foliage that transitions into a serene winter landscape. The temples surrounded by nature offer a tranquil experience unique to Gyeongju.
- Suggested Itinerary: Take in Bulguksa’s autumn colors, then visit Seokguram for its breathtaking view and architecture.
- TIP: Rent a bike to conveniently explore Gyeongju’s historic sites.
5. Jeju Island: Oreum Hiking Trails – Experience Jeju’s Unique Winter Hiking with Pampas Grass Views
- Popular Oreum: Saebyeol Oreum
- Address: Bongseong-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Highlights: In late autumn, Jeju’s oreum trails shine with silver pampas grass. Thanks to Jeju’s mild winter, hiking here is enjoyable even in December.
- Must-Do: Hike Saebyeol Oreum or Darabi Oreum for sweeping views of the ocean and the silver grass fields.
- TIP: Visit at sunrise or sunset for magical lighting over the fields.
6. Busan: Haeundae and Gwangalli Beach – Winter Beachscapes and Night Views of Gwangan Bridge
- Haeundae Address: Haeundae-gu, Busan
- Gwangalli Address: Suyeong-gu, Busan
- Highlights: Enjoy a romantic winter seaside view at Haeundae and Gwangalli Beach. At night, Gwangalli offers stunning views of Gwangan Bridge illuminated against the night sky, making it a favorite winter spot in Busan.
- Must-Do: Walk along Haeundae Beach and head to Gwangalli Beach for Busan’s nighttime coastal scenery.
- TIP: Pack a thick coat and gloves to stay warm against Busan’s cool winter sea breeze.