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October Weather in South Korea
South Korea is renowned as one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Asia, not only for its stunning natural landscapes but also for its temperate climate. A journey to the land of Kimchi in October becomes even more enchanting with the cool autumn weather, picturesque red foliage along the roads, reminiscent of scenes from popular romantic movies of this country.
South Korea experiences a temperate climate with distinct four seasons, pleasantly cool in summer and bitterly cold in winter. Around October, the weather transitions into a refreshing autumn, with cooler temperatures and significantly reduced rainfall, making it an ideal time for travel. In October, the average temperature in South Korea ranges from 17 to 24 degrees Celsius.
South Korea in its full glory in October
What to Prepare for October Travel in South Korea?
Prior to embarking on a trip to South Korea in October, essential preparations include obtaining necessary documents such as a passport, applying for a visa to South Korea, and booking flight tickets and accommodation. If you don't have a passport or are unsure about the visa application process for South Korea, and the required conditions, check the travel requirements here.
In addition to essential documents, when traveling to South Korea, thorough preparation is crucial:
Clothing
Ensure your luggage is packed with suitable clothing for the weather conditions. In October, the weather in South Korea is relatively cool and pleasant. However, evenings and nights can get chilly, so pack long-sleeved shirts, thin dresses for layering, and don't forget stylish cardigans for both fashion and warmth. Bring along sweaters, jackets, and gloves for the evenings and nights to maintain your health.
>>> For more information on clothing suitable for the weather in South Korea, refer to the guide here.
Health Kit
Alongside that, you should also prepare some basic medications such as mentholated oil, adhesive bandages, headache relievers, and stomachache remedies to guard against any issues related to unfamiliar foods or weather conditions while traveling in South Korea.
Cash
When traveling to South Korea, you need to exchange currency – the Won (KRW) is the official currency. Before exchanging money, check the exchange rate for the South Korean Won at that time and find reliable places for currency exchange to ensure you can go directly to banks for more secure transactions. Besides cash, if you have a Visa ATM card, you can also perform cash withdrawals or make card payments at large stores and supermarkets in South Korea.
It's important to note that you need to carry cash as banks in South Korea operate only from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily.
The Won (KRW) is the official currency in South Korea.
Other Preparations
One crucial thing you cannot forget when preparing for a trip to South Korea is a phone SIM card. You can buy a 4G SIM card or a portable wifi device for convenient communication. The transportation system in South Korea is quite complex, so having a phone with internet connectivity will be essential for navigation.
Learn some essential Korean phrases since English is not widely used in South Korea.
>>> Explore more in the Comprehensive Guide for Everything You Need to Prepare When Traveling to South Korea from A to Z.
Where to go, what to do on your October trip to South Korea?
Namsan Park
Namsan Park, an icon of Seoul, is renowned for Namsan Tower – a major attraction where visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of Seoul at night. It's also a popular spot for couples who attach love locks with their wishes. If you're a fan of Korean dramas, Namsan Tower is a familiar romantic setting featured in many popular films.
Jeju Island
Known for supplying ingredients for renowned Korean cosmetics brands, Jeju Island offers a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature. Roaming through this beautiful island with green meadows, golden fields of canola flowers, and surrounded by the clear, cool sea is an unforgettable experience. In October, the crisp weather adds an extra layer of charm to the stunning landscape.
Tranquil Jeju Island
The palace complex in Seoul
Famous for its depiction in historical dramas, the palace complex in Seoul preserves the rich historical and cultural heritage of South Korea. Visitors not only explore the cultural essence of Korea but also immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere, capturing moments with ancient, tranquil houses adorned with a mix of red and gold hues.
Nami Island
Considered one of the most picturesque places in South Korea, especially in October when the perennial ginkgo trees change their colors to yellow, orange, and red. Walking hand in hand with a loved one on the path covered with fallen golden leaves creates a romantic and unforgettable memory.
Nami Island - the paradise of love
Mount Seoraksan
Mount Seoraksan is the third-highest mountain in South Korea, where you can witness the miraculous changes in nature amid a colorful landscape of transitioning foliage, from green to yellow, orange, and red, adorned with the white hue of mountain ranges and waterfalls.
Hyeonchoongsa Path
In October, stepping onto this path, you'll find it quite familiar as it's an image that appears frequently in paintings, calendars, and computer wallpapers. The entire path is lined with evenly spaced trees, casting a radiant golden shade, and walking beside the path covered in fallen yellow leaves, you'll feel the cool breeze of autumn, making you wish time would stand still.
>>> Explore more famous tourist destinations in South Korea at Mytour
October Festivals in South Korea
Seoul International Fireworks Festival
As an international fireworks display event attended by countries such as Japan, France, and Canada, this event attracts millions of spectators. Here, you'll witness spectacular artistic fireworks not only from South Korea but also from other participating nations.
Jinju Lantern Festival
The Jinju Lantern Festival is considered a cultural icon of South Korea. It is organized on a grand scale with thousands of different lanterns hanging and floating along the Nam River. Here, you'll marvel at the giant, dazzling lantern festival, providing unforgettable experiences with its vibrant colors.
Jinju Lantern Festival
Seoul Arirang Cultural Festival
A special artistic program that attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists. This festival has been recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. It recreates the traditional cultural aspects of South Korea.
Andong International Mask Dance Festival
Here, people from all walks of life, as well as tourists from everywhere, come together to dance to traditional music, each wearing a mask, embodying a character. This event showcases the traditional culture and folklore of the people of Andong.
Seoul Music Festival
If you're a K-pop music enthusiast, you shouldn't miss this event. It's an open-space music festival where you won't have to spend a significant amount on tickets like other concerts. You'll get to enjoy performances by famous artists and music groups. Who knows, you might even meet your idol.
What to eat when traveling to South Korea in October?
South Korea is famous for its spicy cuisine. Therefore, any dish you try in the Land of Kimchi will have that distinctive spicy taste. Especially in October, as the weather starts to cool down, spicy dishes will make you appreciate the greatness of the local cuisine.
Kimchi
Kimchi is a dish that cannot be overlooked when savoring Korean cuisine. It's made from fermented vegetables, heavily seasoned, especially with chili powder (spicy salt). Kimchi is commonly consumed in traditional Korean meals and can be enjoyed with hot pot, barbecue, and more.
Kimchi - the national dish
Bibimbap Rice Mix
Bibimbap Rice Mix
Teokbokki Rice Cake
Teokbokki Rice Cake is a familiar dish for Koreans and international tourists. This dish has a distinct spicy and sour taste, commonly enjoyed on chilly days. You can find this dish almost anywhere on the streets of Korea. Besides, Teokbokki is also prevalent in Korean restaurants in Vietnam, but tasting it at the 'original' place is always different, right?
Noodle Dishes
Cold noodles, spicy noodles, black bean noodles, and more are among the distinctive dishes of the Land of Kimchi. Each noodle dish has its unique preparation method and flavor, making it worthwhile for you to savor them all. If you visit Korea in October, you should try Jajiang Myeng, which is noodles mixed with hot and delicious black bean sauce.
Korean cuisine is truly diverse and challenging to explore in just a few days. You should visit traditional Korean food markets, where the suggested dishes above can be found everywhere in the markets or along the streets of Korea.
Korean Cuisine
Things to Note When Traveling to Korea
- When communicating, avoid using the left hand, as it is considered disrespectful. Use both hands to give or receive items, especially when dealing with older individuals.
- The number 4 is considered unlucky, so elevators replace it with the word 'four.'
- Avoid writing names in red ink, as it is considered inauspicious.
- Similar to other countries, Koreans avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a ritual for the deceased.
- Do not let the mouth of a bottle touch a glass, as it is considered an act for the deceased.
- Avoid shaking legs or feet, as it is believed to shake off one's good fortune.
- Do not sniff near the dining table, as it is considered impolite and offensive.
- Avoid laughing or joking on buses and subways, as it may disturb the driver and others.
- When entering a temple, use the side doors, not the main entrance. Also, do not sit or stand in front of Buddha statues, as it is deemed disrespectful.
- Avoid tying white ribbons in your hair, as it symbolizes mourning and death.
- Avoid whistling at night, as it is believed to summon evil spirits, and people may cover your mouth.
Hope the above article provides useful information for those planning a trip to South Korea in the fall. Check out budget-friendly South Korea travel experiences at Mytour.
If you've never set foot in South Korea or are concerned about language barriers or visa procedures, you can consider Mytour's South Korea tours, which include round-trip flights, hotel accommodation, transportation, guides, and travel insurance. Furthermore, Mytour will assist you in completing the visa application process, so you don't have to worry! Wishing you a delightful trip with many exciting experiences.
Author: Thiều Yumi
Image Source: Internet
