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If you’re a Bangkok first-timer, this is your invitation to explore a city teeming with life, flavour and history.
Autumn is a masterpiece of burnt orange, crimson reds and golden colours in South Korea. Picture hiking through forests dipped in a palette of warm colors, visiting ancient Buddhist temples amidst fall foliage, and locking your love at Namsan Tower against a backdrop of tangerine trees.
Naejangsan National Park is less than three hours by fast train south of Seoul where maple trees, waterfalls and temples can be seen in all their splendour. It’s a top spot for hiking and nearby Jeonju is worth a stopover to witness the clash of modern city and historic village side by side.
South Korea in autumn is a festival lover’s paradise! As the leaves turn fiery shades, the city comes alive with vibrant celebrations. Read on to discover the captivating autumn festivals that make South Korea an irresistible destination.
1. Bibimbap Festival
Imagine indulging in Korea’s iconic rice dish, bibimbap, amidst a lively street festival. If this sounds like your type of event, look no further than the Bibimbap Festival. The surrounding area is known as the ‘rice bowl’ of Korea and home of the Bibimbap Festival, celebrating the local dish of mixed rice, meat and vegetables. Held in Jeonju, just a train ride away from Seoul, there are cooking competitions, street parades, performances and the best bibimbap to eat. The festival typically takes place in October each year.
2. Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival
At the Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival visitors can write their wishes on lanterns and float them down the river in an age-old tradition. A lantern exhibition, lantern-making, lantern flying and fireworks are also part of the festival and while there’s a local version of the bibimbap dish on restaurant menus, the specialty to try here is local grilled eel.
3. Andong International Mask Dance Festival
For a dash of mystique, visit Andong. The Andong International Mask Dance Festival takes place in the historic Andong Hahoe Village – a living museum of Korea's cultural heritage. It’s a unique blend of art, folklore, and theatrical flair that transports you to another era. The festival showcases Korean Mask Dance as well as mask culture from around 20 different countries. Visitors can make a character mask from the traditional mulberry paper and learn the mask dance.
4. Icheon Rice Cultural Festival
Icheon, renowned for its rice production, is celebrated for cultivating the finest rice in Korea. Historically, this exceptional Icheon rice graced the tables of Korean kings, and its reputation remains esteemed to this day. The Icheon Rice Cultural Festival celebrates the rice harvesting season. Join in pounding rice, making traditional rice cakes and the entertainment of traditional folk music and dance.
5. Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival
Seoul is a modern megacity of 10 million people, a burgeoning economy and a world-leading technology hub but its history began 2,000 years ago and the Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival celebrates its origins with a street parade full of colourful costumes and musical performances. This vibrant festival takes place around the Mongchontoseong Fortress area, which stands as a tangible relic of the ancient Baekje capital. Visitors can enjoy a rich array of activities, including folk performances, musicals, family concerts, and delightful food offerings.
6. Seoul Lantern Festival
The Seoul Lantern Festival, an annual Autumn celebration in Seoul, South Korea, takes place from the first Friday of November until the third weekend of the month. This enchanting event unfolds along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, where a mesmerizing array of intricate life-sized lanterns awaits visitors. These lanterns, crafted by artists from around the world and local citizens, blend traditional designs with modern LED technology. As you explore, don’t miss the vibrant Gwanghwamun Square Market, which adds to the festival’s allure.
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