Some of my favorite corners of Seoul to visit when the leaves start turning gold and the evenings get a little cooler.
I've been traveling to South Korea regularly, usually two to three times a year, and if there's one season I always look forward to, it's autumn. There's just something about Seoul when the weather gets cooler, the trees turn shades of yellow and orange, and the city starts looking like a scene straight out of a K-drama.
I've visited Seoul in different seasons, but autumn will always have a special place in my heart. And since I'm not one to gatekeep pretty places, I thought I'd share some of my favorite spots for enjoying the season, taking photos, or simply spending a slow afternoon outdoors.
These photos are from my visits to Seoul Forest and the Hangang River parks. They're not a comprehensive list of autumn foliage spots, but rather a little collection of places and views that made me appreciate Seoul even more.
If you're planning a trip to Korea this autumn, consider adding these to your itinerary!
IN THIS ARTICLE
QUICK FACTS: SEOUL AUTUMN PHOTO SPOTS
| Destination | Seoul, South Korea |
| Places featured | Seoul Forest and Hangang River parks |
| Best for | Autumn walks, photography, nature and sunset views |
| Admission fee | Free for the public park areas |
| Recommended time | Late October to early November for a typical autumn foliage trip; actual timing varies by year |
Seoul Forest: A Little Autumn Escape in the City
One of the things I love about Seoul is how easy it is to find a little pocket of nature even when you're surrounded by buildings, shopping streets, and the usual city hustle.
Seoul Forest is one of those places.
The park has wide walking paths, open spaces, and plenty of trees that make it particularly lovely when autumn arrives. I love how the golden leaves contrast with the blue sky and the buildings peeking through the trees. It's such a simple view, but it's the kind of scenery that makes me want to slow down and take it all in.
Looking at these photos again makes me want to book another trip just to walk around here with a camera in hand.
And that's one of the things I appreciate about Seoul Forest: you don't necessarily need a packed itinerary. You can simply spend some time walking, looking for pretty corners, taking photos, and enjoying the change of seasons.
A few of my favorite Seoul Forest views
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The tree-lined paths are what immediately come to mind when I think of autumn in Seoul. The mix of golden leaves, clear skies, and tall buildings in the background captures that particular balance between nature and city life that I love about Korea.
I also like that not every photo has to be a close-up of colorful leaves. Sometimes it's the wider views, the little pathways, or even the contrast between the landscape and the surrounding architecture that makes a photo interesting.
If you're visiting Seoul during autumn, I'd suggest giving yourself time to explore rather than rushing from one photo spot to another. You might find your favorite view somewhere along the way.
Hangang Park: Golden Hour by the River
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And then there's the Hangang River.
If Seoul Forest is where I'd go for a peaceful walk surrounded by trees, the Hangang is where I'd head when I want to catch the sunset.
I love how the entire mood changes as the sun starts going down. The sky turns into different shades of orange, the buildings become silhouettes, and the river reflects the colors of the evening.
Some of my favorite photos from the river are the simplest ones: the skyline, the bridges, the water, and that beautiful orange glow just before the day ends.
The black-and-white cityscape is another reminder that Seoul doesn't always have to be photographed in bright colors. Even without the autumn leaves, there's something beautiful about seeing the city from a different perspective.
Place your sunset photos and the black-and-white skyline photo in this section.
What I like about the Hangang parks is that they're not just sightseeing spots. They're part of everyday life in Seoul. You'll find people walking, cycling, relaxing by the river, or simply enjoying the view.
It's a nice way to spend an afternoon after exploring the city, especially if you don't feel like squeezing another attraction into your itinerary.
And if you're visiting during autumn, the cooler weather makes a riverside stroll even more enjoyable.
A glimpse of late autumn in Seoul
Why I'd visit both
Seoul Forest and the Hangang River offer two different sides of the city, and that's exactly why I'd include both in an autumn itinerary.At Seoul Forest, it's all about the trees, walking paths, and the changing colors of the season. By the river, it's about the open views, the skyline, and the sunset.You could even visit Seoul Forest in the afternoon and continue toward the riverside for the evening, depending on the exact areas you want to explore and how much walking you're comfortable with.Just keep in mind that Hangang Park is not one single park entrance. There are multiple riverside parks along the river, each with its own access points and nearby subway stations.
HOW TO GET THERE
Here's some practical information if you're visiting these places for the first time.
Seoul Forest
273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (Google Maps | Naver Maps)
Subway
- Suin–Bundang Line: Seoul Forest Station, Exit 3 or 4.
- Line 2: Ttukseom Station, Exit 8, followed by a walk.
Seoul Forest Station is generally the more convenient option.
Hangang River parks
There are several Hangang parks, including Ttukseom, Banpo, Yeouido, and Ichon. The best subway station depends on which riverside area you want to visit. (Official Seoul Hangang Parks guide)
My tip: If you want to recreate the river and skyline views in these photos, check the exact park location and map pin before heading out. Hangang Park covers multiple areas, and the photos alone aren't enough to identify the specific riverside entrance or park.
For Seoul Forest, you can also refer to the official Visit Seoul guide for park information and transit directions. The park is free to enter, with some facilities having their own operating hours.
A FEW TIPS FOR YOUR AUTUMN TRIP
1. Check the foliage forecast
Autumn colors change from year to year. Late October to early November is a useful planning window for Seoul, but check updated forecasts before finalizing your itinerary.
2. Go on a clear day
If photography is your priority, check the weather and air quality. Clear skies make a difference, especially for the skyline and riverside shots.
3. Stay for golden hour
For the Hangang River, plan around sunset rather than arriving too late. Check the sunset time for your travel date and give yourself time to find a comfortable viewing spot.
4. Wear comfortable shoes
Both destinations are best enjoyed on foot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring an extra layer for cooler evenings.
5. Keep your itinerary flexible
You don't need to visit every park in one day. Pick the locations that fit your route and give yourself time to enjoy them.
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My Take
I think one of the reasons I keep coming back to Seoul is that there's always something different to appreciate, even in places I've visited before.
I've been to South Korea several times a year, and I still get excited about the little things: the changing leaves, a familiar walking path, a pretty sunset, or a view that makes me stop and take another photo.
Autumn just makes everything feel a little more special.
So if you're planning your first autumn trip to Seoul, or even your next one, I hope these photos give you a few ideas for places to explore. You don't always have to chase the most famous tourist attractions to enjoy a destination. Sometimes, the best travel memories come from simply walking around and appreciating what's right in front of you.
And if you happen to visit any of these spots, I hope you get to experience your own little autumn moment in Seoul, too.
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