In Korea, a land where each season brings a fresh story, autumn is a tale written in crisp air and golden hues. As summer’s stifling heat fades, cool breezes sweep across the country, invigorating streets and landscapes with a sense of renewal. It's the season that invites leisurely strolls under canopies of fiery foliage and moments of quiet contemplation over a warm cup of coffee at a sunlit café terrace. Autumn gifts the senses with small, precious gestures—the invigorating chill of the morning and the amber glow of late afternoon.
Yet this year, the story has an unexpected twist. The relentless heat of summer has overstayed its welcome, and the once-predictable cadence of Korea’s seasons is faltering. Government data warns of a climate in flux: autumns are shortening, summers are stretching their reign, and winters are drawing back. Projections for 2100 paint a subtropical portrait for nearly half of Korea, underscoring the urgency to savor this fleeting time before it fades even more.
So, where should one go to soak in the essence of autumn in Seoul? For visitors and locals alike, finding those pockets of seasonal wonder—whether MICHELIN-Selected hotels and restaurants or lesser-known, hidden gems—is essential. This guide reveals the city's top spots to experience the magic of fall, places where the essence of autumn unfolds in vivid colors and serene moments.
As the seasons shift, each day of fall becomes a gift. Relish the crisp mornings and sun-dappled afternoons, for in the changing narrative of Korea’s climate, autumn is a fleeting chapter to treasure.
This fall, why not embrace your inner text-hipster?
In Korea, autumn is a season known for its clear skies and crisp air, perfect for outdoor moments with a good book. This year, Seoul is buzzing with the 'text-hip' trend, sparked by novelist Han Kang’s 2024 Nobel Prize in literature win, captivating readers across generations. Since her accolade was announced on Oct. 10, sales of her works, including e-books, have surpassed one million copies by Oct. 15—setting an impressive record in just five days, according to major national bookstores like Kyobo, Yes24, and Aladin.
The sight of solo readers at cafés has become a quintessential image of Seoul this season. So if you’re visiting, bring along that book you’ve been meaning to dive into and savor it at a scenic café or terrace—or through the hotel’s special ‘bookcation’ package. As the sun sets, pair the experience with a glass of beer, wine, or a cocktail for a memory that lingers long after the pages are turned.
If you're staying at one of Seoul’s Michelin-selected hotels, make sure to check out their terraces and cafés. The Grand Hyatt Seoul offers an outdoor terrace café with sweeping views of the city, while Conrad Seoul’s ‘VERTIGO’ is an urban outdoor sky lounge that brings you closer to nature. The JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul is home to various cafés and lounges, some featuring outdoor terraces perfect for soaking in the fall atmosphere.
At the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, guests can enjoy beer at the garden terrace. The rooftop bar ‘Side Note Club’ at RYSE Hotel presents panoramic city views, making it an ideal spot to sip on a drink as the evening unfolds. L’Escape Hotel features French-style cafés and lounges, exuding a unique charm. The rooftop bar ‘Floating’ at L7 Myeongdong offers a stunning view of Seoul’s nightscape.
For a cozy, laid-back experience, La Casa Hotel Seoul is equipped with inviting cafés and terraces that invite relaxation. Andaz Seoul Gangnam provides a range of dining venues, some with terraces perfect for a leisurely drink. The Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Seoul, boasts refined lounges and cafés with terrace spaces for an elevated experience. At Voco Seoul Gangnam, modern-designed cafés and lounges with terraces create a stylish ambiance for unwinding.
Forgot your book? No worries—Vista Walkerhill Seoul has you covered. Their library boasts an impressive selection, ranging from art and history to bestsellers and niche reads.
The Shilla Hotel Seoul has launched a unique autumn-inspired 'bookcation' package, offering guests a surprise selection of two carefully curated books in collaboration with a local independent bookstore. Embracing the rising 'text-hip' trend, this package creates a fall-themed literary experience.
Among them all, the standout recommendation is the café at SIGNIEL Seoul. Situated on the 107th floor, it promises an unforgettable view of the city that’s bound to leave a lasting impression.
Seoul International Fireworks Festival
Every autumn, Seoul’s skyline becomes a living masterpiece as the Seoul International Fireworks Festival bursts into life, painting the heavens with brilliant hues. Held between late September and early October, this dazzling spectacle transforms the city’s iconic Yeouido Hangang Park into a vibrant stage, drawing throngs of locals and visitors alike. This year, on Oct. 5, the skies above the Han River—spanning from Mapo Bridge to Hangang Railway Bridge—were set ablaze, captivating an audience of nearly one million spectators.
The festival’s magnetic energy is as enchanting as it is overwhelming, with the crowds and city-wide traffic adding to the electrifying hustle. For those keen on enjoying the festival without the stress of navigating packed public spaces, public transportation is a must, but an even better alternative awaits: a stay at a luxury hotel with an unmatched river view.
For an exclusive experience, consider these Michelin-recommended hotels in Yeouido that seamlessly blend comfort with a front-row seat to the pyrotechnic show: Conrad Seoul and GLAD Yeouido. Each of these hotels not only offers opulent accommodations but also unparalleled vantage points to watch the sky ignite in color.
Conrad Seoul, known for its floor-to-ceiling windows, provides breathtaking panoramic views that make guests feel as if they are floating above the glowing river. Meanwhile, GLAD Yeouido invites guests to take in the spectacular display from its rooftop terrace, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening.
To make the most of this luminous event, book a “Han River view” room well in advance, as demand soars during festival season. Keep an eye on special promotions and ‘fireworks festival packages’ on hotel websites, which often include unique perks to elevate your stay.
While immersing yourself in the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, elevate your experience by exploring Seoul's culinary delights. The neighborhood boasts a selection of MICHELIN-recognized establishments, ranging from starred restaurants to Bib Gourmand honorees, ensuring a memorable dining journey.
Watching the Seoul International Fireworks Festival from these sophisticated sanctuaries allows you to revel in the grandeur of the display with a sense of serenity and indulgence. From the comfort of your suite, the city’s pulse resonates as bursts of light and color weave a spellbinding tapestry, making the experience an unforgettable celebration of Seoul’s vibrant spirit.
Autumn Hiking Adventures in Seoul
Seoul’s autumn is a symphony of crisp air, vibrant foliage, and inviting trails, creating an irresistible season for hiking. In South Korea, where mountains cover approximately 65.2% of the land—ranking fourth worldwide for forest density, as noted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport—there’s no shortage of breathtaking paths that blend nature’s beauty with urban proximity. Adding to the allure, local eateries tucked along these trails promise a delightful culinary stop, making any hiking excursion as flavorful as it is scenic.
To fully enjoy this seasonal splendor, staying in central Seoul is a strategic choice. The bustling Jung-gu district, for instance, offers seamless access to Namsan, one of the city’s most beloved peaks. Here, even spontaneous hikers can find themselves ascending without the need for heavy gear. Accommodations like Hotel28 Myeongdong, The Shilla Seoul, L’Escape Hotel, and L7 Myeongdong provide comfort, luxury, and convenience, placing you at the gateway to this autumnal adventure.
For those who prefer a lighter expedition, the Namsan Tower cable car presents an effortless yet thrilling ascent to the summit. While bus routes are an option, the cable car’s panoramic journey provides an unmatched view of Seoul’s autumn tapestry, ensuring that the trip is as unforgettable as the destination.
For beginners, Inwangsan is an excellent choice. Located between Jongno-gu and Seodaemun-gu, it’s easily accessible and worth exploring if you're staying in one of the surrounding hotels. With its gentle trails and panoramic city views, Inwangsan offers an approachable yet rewarding hiking experience in the heart of Seoul.
After a refreshing hike, indulge in the city's gastronomic delights at nearby MICHELIN-selected establishments, many of which are family-run and have earned the esteemed Bib Gourmand distinction for their exceptional quality and value such as Hadongkwan.
Embrace the season, explore the mountains, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that Seoul’s autumn has to offer.
Seoul Silver Grass Festival
Every October, the Seoul Silver Grass Festival transforms the Sky Park (Haneul Park) within the World Cup Park in Sangam-dong into a stunning spectacle, both day and night. Spanning an impressive 198,348 square meters, the festival showcases waves of silver grass that create a mesmerizing view. It's astounding to think that this picturesque haven was once a landfill for the city, a detail that adds layers of historical and cultural significance to the experience.
Since its establishment as an ecological park, the festival has been an annual event since 2002. Visitors can stroll through vast fields of silver grass, enjoying not only the delicate sway of the blooms but also panoramic views of Seoul’s nightscape, as the park itself is perched on a hill. During the festival, Haneul Park remains open until 10 p.m., inviting guests to take in the beauty of the illuminated scenery.
The event offers a variety of attractions including waves of shimmering silver grass illuminated by lights and a music lighting show. Visitors can enjoy activities such as the 'Wish Zone' along the Wind Path, photo spots like the Silver Grass Swing, and live busking performances scattered throughout the venue. There are also engaging experiences like walking through the silver grass, creating silver grass bouquets, and making upcycled keyrings.
The sight of the autumn sky, clear and boundless, combined with the 1-2 meter-tall silver grass swaying gently in the breeze, immerses visitors in the quintessential charm of fall. This celebration of nature is not just a visual delight but also a testament to the transformative power of ecological restoration, showcasing Seoul’s unique blend of history, nature, and urban renewal
Dining with Stunning Foliage Views: Outdoor Dining Amidst Fresh Air and Gentle Breezes
Looking to treat both your eyes and taste buds? Head to one of Seoul's finest Michelin-selected restaurants, where floor-to-ceiling views offer a breathtaking blend of autumn’s vibrant colors and culinary excellence. Discover Seoul's finest spots for a luxurious dining experience, perfectly set amidst the seasonal beauty, both indoors and out.
Eatanic Garden offers a distinctive MICHELIN one-star dining experience, blending refined aesthetics with autumn-inspired flavors. Surrounded by views of the city’s natural landscape, it provides a serene escape for those seeking a seasonal retreat within the city.
The Green Table celebrates seasonal ingredients in a scenic setting, embracing a farm-to-table philosophy with dishes crafted from fresh, local produce. Framed by large windows, diners can enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons, making it an ideal location to savor autumn’s essence in every bite.
An Evening at the Han River with Banpo Bridge’s Mesmerizing Moonlight Rainbow Fountain
No visit to Seoul in autumn is complete without a stop by the Han River, where the season’s crisp charm meets serene waterfront views. Imagine settling down with takeout from a nearby MICHELIN-selected restaurant, savoring your favorite drink, and feeling the gentle breeze as the city’s autumnal beauty unfolds around you. Among the river's many scenic spots, Banpo Bridge stands out as a must-see destination, thanks to its captivating Moonlight Rainbow Fountain—a spectacle that transforms an ordinary evening into an open-air concert of light and sound.
Recognized by Guinness World Records on November 7, 2008, as the “World’s Longest Bridge Fountain,” Banpo Bridge’s show is nothing short of mesmerizing. Its 380 water jets, adjusted with precision to respond to the wind’s direction, create a seamless, ever-changing dance above the river. The display, bathed in the glow of 200 LED lights, casts a vibrant palette of colors that ripple across the water, elevating the Han River’s tranquility into a visual symphony.
From September to October, the fountain comes alive with performances that last 20 minutes each, scheduled at 12:00, 19:30, 20:00, 20:30, and 21:00. To add to the magic, the water show is synchronized with a curated playlist of melodies, accessible on the official Seoul city website, so visitors can anticipate the soundtracks that enrich their experience.
As you plan your autumn itinerary in Seoul, make time for an evening by Banpo Bridge. Witnessing the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain is more than just a visual treat—it’s an immersive experience that embodies the season’s spirit and showcases the city’s vibrant pulse.
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art(MMCA), Seoul
Autumn in Seoul is a season where the city's cultural vibrancy reaches its zenith, offering an ideal backdrop to explore Korea's rich artistic heritage. Among the myriad of art spaces, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) on Samcheong-ro stands out as a beacon of Korea's artistic evolution.
The MMCA's Seoul branch is renowned for its dedication to contemporary art, presenting exhibitions that reflect the dynamic pulse of modern creativity. To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to check the museum's official website for current exhibition schedules, ensuring you don't miss any captivating installations. Notably, the museum offers late-night openings on Wednesdays and Saturdays until 9 p.m., providing a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in art after a day of exploring the charming galleries that line Samcheong-ro.
Samcheong-ro itself is a cultural haven, home to numerous galleries that showcase both traditional and contemporary works. Strolling along this picturesque street, you'll encounter spaces like Gallery Hyundai, a cornerstone of Korea's art scene with over 50 years of history, and Hakgojae Gallery, which harmoniously blends traditional and modern architectural styles.
As you plan your autumn itinerary in Seoul, dedicating time to the MMCA and the surrounding art district will offer a profound insight into Korea's cultural narrative, enriching your experience of the city's artistic landscape.
The neighborhood’s blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics, with its charming galleries, quaint cafes, and boutique shops, promises an experience that is as enlightening as it is memorable.
Whether you're taking in the latest installation or simply strolling past the colorful leaves that line the street, the MMCA and its surroundings create a perfect autumn day in Seoul—one that enriches both the mind and the senses.
Staycation Bliss: Spa and Sauna Retreats
As autumn's crisp embrace settles over Seoul, there’s no better time to indulge in a luxurious staycation that captures the serene beauty of the season while offering unparalleled relaxation. For those looking to escape the chill and experience all-encompassing comfort—or simply to unwind after a tiring hike with sore, tense muscles—Seoul's top-tier, Michelin-recommended hotels present an enticing array of indoor amenities, from temperature-controlled pools to rejuvenating spa and sauna facilities.
The Westin Josun Seoul welcomes guests with 'V SPA' and a state-of-the-art sauna at the 'City Athletic Club', blending wellness with urban elegance. The Shilla Seoul extends an equally lavish experience with its renowned 'The Shilla Spa', offering a variety of treatments tailored to revitalize and refresh.
At Vista Walkerhill Seoul, visitors can luxuriate in the signature services of 'The Spa', while Park Hyatt Seoul provides a tranquil escape at 'The Spa', combining modern design with holistic care. For a unique wellness experience, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul features the world-class 'Banyan Tree Spa', known for its signature treatments that combine traditional Asian techniques with contemporary approaches.
Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas delights with its 'InterContinental Spa', ensuring a peaceful haven for relaxation seekers. Grand Hyatt Seoul and Conrad Seoul maintain their reputations for luxury through 'The Spa' and 'Conrad Spa', providing sophisticated spa and sauna experiences. Meanwhile, JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul invites guests to indulge in 'The Spa by JW', where personalized treatments elevate relaxation.
For a sky-high retreat, SIGNIEL Seoul offers the 'Retreat SIGNIEL Spa', an experience that pairs opulent surroundings with panoramic views of the city. Four Seasons Hotel Seoul and Andaz Seoul Gangnam both feature high-end spa services; 'The Spa at Andaz' brings a fresh, youthful take on wellness, while Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam rounds out the list with 'The Great Spa', a sanctuary that fuses modern luxury with traditional Korean influences.
Embrace the season and treat yourself to a staycation that weaves together Seoul’s distinctive sophistication and the restorative power of world-class spas. Whether it’s the rhythmic pulse of a heated pool or the soothing warmth of a steam sauna, these destinations promise a getaway infused with bliss and serenity.
