Top 6 Most Beautiful Mountains in South Korea for Autumn and Winter

Mount Seoraksan is the highest mountain in the Taebaek mountain range and a symbol of Korea. Standing at 1708 meters tall in the Sokcho, Yangyang, and Inje regions of Gangwon-do province, Mount Seoraksan is the third-highest mountain in South Korea, renowned for its autumn foliage. Each year, from late September to early October, tourists from around the world come here to marvel at the mesmerizing beauty of the rocky peaks, valleys, and waterfalls of Seoraksan National Park, witnessing the miraculous transformation of nature as the landscape is painted with vibrant hues of yellow, red, green, white, and orange. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you can plan a mountain climbing excursion to Mount Seoraksan.

There are various trails to the summit, with different durations ranging from 1 to 2 hours, 8 hours, or even 2 days and 1 night. However, there are three main routes for experiencing the full beauty of autumn: the Sinheungsa Temple area, the Cheonbuldong Valley passing through Biseondae, and the Jujeongol area starting from the Osaek mineral spring. Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely experience, another easy way to explore Mount Seoraksan is by using the modern cable car system, which takes tourists to the middle of the mountain in just 5 minutes, offering panoramic views of the stunning autumn scenery. The natural mineral rocks dating back thousands of years also attract visitors' attention. Hot springs like Chuksan and Ohsek provide weary travelers with a soothing place to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. Additionally, visitors will be impressed by the visit to the oldest wooden house in Korea - Ojukheon House, the birthplace of the famous scholar Yul-gok. Interestingly, you can see this house and scholar Yul-gok on the 5,000 won banknote. And don't miss the opportunity to visit the Alpensia Ski Jump area, the backdrop for the highly acclaimed Korean film Winter Sonata.

Legend has it that Dangun, the founder of ancient Goguryeo kingdom of Korea, was born on Taebaeksan Mountain. On the highest peak of Taebaeksan still exists an 'altar for worshiping spirits' called Cheonjedan. The peak Janggunbong of Taebaeksan stands at 1,567m. While Taebaeksan Mountain may not boast colorful foliage like other mountain ranges in autumn, it still captivates visitors with its snow-white forests in winter, adorned with snowflakes. Every January, a white snow festival takes place on this mountain. It takes only 2 hours of hiking to feel the chilling cold of this land of Kimchi. A trip to Korea without visiting Mount Taebaeksan in Gangwon is incomplete. This is the season that attracts a large number of tourists to explore the mountain of white snow and ginseng ice. Here, tourists will enjoy the majestic, picturesque scenery of mountain forests. Along with that are small, beautiful snowflakes covering, creating a romantic, enchanting beauty.

If you are an adventurous soul, then try the thrilling journey of climbing Taebaeksan Mountain. A 2-hour adventure to the summit will leave you completely satisfied with a smile. Standing at the top, looking down below, you will observe the panoramic view of the romantic snow world. Everything is extremely beautiful, a mysterious and attractive charm. There you can also participate in the annual Taebaeksan Mountain snow festival, held around January. The festival takes place at Taebaeksan Park

, Gangwon Province, Korea. There you will admire exhibitions with vivid snow sculptures. Artworks on the theme of winter homeland or famous characters breathe life into the winter scenery. The bustling atmosphere warms up the cold weather. A white snow paradise with majestic, romantic scenery mixed with a bit of mystery. That mountain is like an irresistible invitation, once you set foot, you will never forget.

Located in the heart of Seoul, Bukhansan Mountain is likened to the 'lungs of the capital' because of its crucial role in climate regulation. When hiking up this mountain, you have a panoramic and perfect view of Seoul. Climbing Bukhansan Mountain takes three hours to reach Baegundae Peak. The most popular route starts from the Bukhansanseong Support Center near Gupabal subway station. However, this mountain is very easy to climb with well-established trails, so many Koreans hike this mountain on weekends. Described as a magnificent maze, it's the perfect choice for hiking and exploring mountains. About 1,300 species of diverse plants and animals live on the mountain. Bukhansan has such smooth curves that the large granite rocks sometimes look like they will slide down the mountain. The sharp peaks contrast with dozens of valleys and flowing rivers below.

Standing on Baegundae and looking down, sometimes you can see the city of Seoul and the Hangang River. There are also many interesting historical sites on the mountain, such as the memorial tower of King Sunsubi Silla Jinheung on Bibong Peak, the Bukhansanseong Fortress built along the mountain range, the Sangunsa Temple built by the monk Won-Hyo, and many other temples scattered throughout the mountainous regions. Many temples testify to the rich cultural history and strong development of Bukhansan. The journey to Bukhansan is truly a unique experience, and you will surely be impressed by exploring the trails, the magnificence of nature, or the historical relics here, aren't you?

Jirisan is one of the oldest and most majestic mountains in South Korea. The mountain is located within the largest national park in South Korea. With a height of 1,915m, it is the second-highest mountain in South Korea. Around October, the scenery of the mountain is like wearing a beautiful autumn coat with yellow and red leaves blending into the rugged streams at the foot of the mountain. Many tourists couldn't believe their eyes when they set foot on Jirisan Mountain because of the mystical beauty of the 1,915m-high mountain and the meandering streams at its base. Climbing to the highest peak of Jirisan takes about 5 hours. In autumn, the allure here lies in the picturesque beauty of the valleys. A painting-like scene will unfold right before the eyes of tourists.

The total area of this mountain is 471,758 ha. Especially, there are up to 989 species of animals living here, along with temperate and tropical vegetation. Therefore, this place is likened to a treasure trove bestowed by nature. For those passionate about mountain climbing, eager to conquer the highest and largest mountain on the South Korean mainland, then seek out Jirisan Mountain. This top-notch mountain in South Korea consists of many beautiful peaks, such as the highest peak Cheonwangbong, Nogodan Peak, and Banyabong Peak. Adjacent to three provinces Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do, and Gyeongsangnam-do, there are mountain ranges and valleys stretching 40km from east to west. In 1967, this Jirisan Mountain was recognized as the first national park in South Korea.

Located in the northern part of Chungcheong Province, it's considered the most beautiful mountain in Korea. In the fall, the entire forest on Songnisan Mountain turns into a vibrant red covering the rugged cliffs with beautiful natural formations. The highest peak, Cheonwangbong (1,058m), but the most beautiful must be Munjangdae Peak (1,054m) surrounded by soft, billowing clouds. When the mist covers this high peak, it creates a surreal beauty. Additionally, you can see a 33m Buddha statue covered in romantic golden leaves. It takes about 3 hours to explore the beauty of Songnisan Mountain.

With the meaning of 'escaping from the secular world', metaphorically describing the landscape here as beautiful as paradise. Songnisan Mountain is indeed a paradise in Korea. In the fall, the entire forest on Songnisan Mountain turns into a vibrant red, covering the unique rock formations, creating a stunning natural scenery. Climbing to the top of Munjangdae Peak, you'll feel like you're entering heaven as everywhere you look, there are clouds. For a more thrilling experience, you can extend your view around and down into the valley below, where you'll have the opportunity to admire the magnificent and majestic natural scenery.

Located on the volcanic island of Jeju, Mount Hallasan is considered the most familiar and famous peak on this beautiful island. Hallasan was originally a volcano with powerful eruptions, forming the magnificent Jeju Island. It's also the highest mountain in Korea with an impressive height of 1,950m. In winter, the entire mountain is covered with snow and ice, making it the ideal time to visit. But autumn on Mount Hallasan also brings its own beauty with the changing colors of the foliage, turning the area into a picturesque scene. Autumn is also the season you should visit Mount Hallasan. The breathtaking scenery is irresistible to visitors.

Mount Hallasan has four distinct seasons, with numerous waterfalls, various rock formations, and a crater lake. Exploring the crater lake of Baeknokdam is something many tourists want to experience the most. If not, you can also wander the trails to admire the landscape covered in pure white snow in winter. This is a sightseeing spot that helps tourists avoid the bustling crowds during their trip to Korea. Especially in winter, this is the most wonderful entertainment spot for young people. But if given the choice, you should come here in autumn when the forests don their vibrant colors. Visit the Hallasan National Park and stop to take photos here. The scenery will enchant you.