By MOOK Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported
As autumn arrives in South Korea, people eagerly await the vibrant maple leaves lining the streets. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the optimal 20-day period for enjoying Korea's stunning maple scenery spans from the initial red foliage date to one week after peak color. This year, the initial red foliage dates are slightly earlier than last year. Starting October 2, visitors to Gangwon Province’s Seoraksan Mountain can witness the beautiful early transformation of maple leaves. Meanwhile, Seoul’s Bukhansan Mountain will enter the initial red stage on October 15.
Korea's maple viewing season is approaching. Travelers planning an autumn trip to Korea should include maple leaf viewing in their itinerary. (Photo provided by the Korea Tourism Organization)
The red foliage dates are determined based on the area covered by red leaves. When 20% of the maple trees display red foliage, it marks the beginning of the red season, while 80% coverage indicates peak color. In Seoul, Bukhansan Mountain will enter the initial red stage on October 15 and reach its best viewing period on October 26. Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul, showcases the iconic Gyeonghoeru Pavilion—a representative structure of the Joseon Dynasty—bathed in autumn maple hues, recreating the royal maple-viewing scene of that era. The stone steps and carvings in front of Geunjeongjeon Hall, set against the red maple backdrop, are a perfect representation of sculptural artistry and natural beauty.
Historic sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Suwon Hwaseong Fortress in Gyeonggi Province and Bulguksa Temple and Seokgatap in Gyeongju, are not only culturally significant maple viewing spots but also architectural marvels. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is highly praised for its practical design and ingenuity in architecture, military, and commercial functions. The earthen path leading to Seokgatap features stunning maple foliage along the way, culminating in the temple’s main dome—a masterpiece of 360 stone slabs meticulously constructed during the Silla Dynasty’s golden age. This iconic stone cave temple is a quintessential Korean example. To stay updated on Korea’s maple foliage conditions, visit the website www.kma.go.kr/weather/observation/maple_photo.jsp. A mountain icon indicates the best viewing time.
Changgyeonggung Palace in Seoul, framed by gradually reddening maple leaves, exudes a classic charm. (Photo provided by the Korea Tourism Organization)
The predicted maple viewing dates for various regions in Korea are as follows:
|
Region |
Elevation (meters) |
Location |
Initial Red Stage |
Peak Viewing Period |
|
2012 |
2012 |
|||
|
Seoraksan Mountain |
1,708 |
Sokcho, Gangwon Province |
10/2 |
10/17 |
|
Odaesan Mountain |
1,563 |
Daegwallyeong, Gangwon Province |
10/4 |
10/18 |
|
Jirisan Mountain |
1,288 |
Wonju, Gangwon Province |
10/9 |
10/20 |
|
Jirisan Mountain |
1,915 |
Namwon, Jeollabuk-do |
10/10 |
10/18 |
|
Gayasan Mountain |
1,430 |
Goseong, Gyeongsangnam-do |
10/12 |
10/25 |
|
Bukhansan Mountain |
836 |
Seoul |
10/15 |
10/26 |
|
Woryeongsan Mountain |
1,097 |
Chungju, North Chungcheong Province |
10/15 |
10/23 |
|
Seoraksan |
1,058 |
Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province |
10/15 |
10/26 |
|
Hanbyeokgul-am /p> |
1,950 |
Jeju |
10/15 |
10/30 |
|
Gyeryongsan |
845 |
Daejeon |
10/17 |
10/27 |
|
Palgongsan |
1,192 |
Daegu |
10/18 |
10/26 |
|
Mt. Mudeung |
1,187 |
Gwangju |
10/23 |
11/2 |
|
Naejangsan |
763 |
Jeonju, North Jeolla Province |
10/25 |
11/6 |
|
Duwolsan |
703 |
Haenam, South Jeolla Province |
10/28 |
11/11 |
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