AS you journey through Seoraksan National Park in autumn, the crunch of golden ginkgo leaves underfoot fills the crisp air, enveloping you in a tapestry of vibrant colours and tranquil beauty.
Every season in Korea has its own charm, but autumn and winter feel especially magical. The mountains glow with autumn colours, and winter brings sparkling, snowy scenes. It is the time to slow down, enjoy the culture and make lasting memories.
AUTUMN
Golden leaves, timeless culture
In autumn (September to November), Korea’s landscapes transform into a breathtaking mix of red, orange and gold. Visitors can stroll through the Gyeongju Bomun Tourist Complex, where lakeside views meet colourful foliage, or explore Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, a city that blends tradition with modern charm.
The Imjingang Daepassari Park in Gyeonggi-do offers peaceful riverside trails, while the Gyeongju Historic Areas let travellers experience both vibrant autumn scenery and Korea’s rich cultural heritage.
Activities and things to do
â—˜Hiking and strolls: Discover trails in Seoraksan National Park or take city strolls under golden ginkgo trees.
â—˜Sightseeing: Capture the autumn beauty at temples, palaces and scenic mountain peaks.
â—˜Seasonal food: Enjoy persimmons, sweet potatoes and chestnuts, which are comforting autumn flavours.
â—˜Cultural experiences: Participate in local harvest festivals and appreciate Korea’s traditions during this colourful season.
WINTER
Snowy adventures, cultural charm
When winter arrives (December to February), Korea turns into a white wonderland. The Ssanggyeru Pavilion at Baegyangsa Temple in Jangseong-gun, Jeollanam-do is surrounded by pine trees and snow, creating a tranquil retreat. In Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, the Camellia Forest blooms against the winter backdrop, offering unique seasonal beauty.
Hikers can head to Seolcheongbong Peak in Deogyusan National Park, Jeonbuk-do for snowy mountain trails, while history lovers can enjoy the quiet charm of Chehwajeong Pavilion in Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, where tradition meets winter serenity.
Activities and things to do
â—˜Winter sports: Experience skiing and snowboarding at world-class resorts like Mona Yongpyong.
â—˜Cultural exploration: Visit snow-covered palaces, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace for a magical atmosphere.
â—˜Festive lights: Stroll through dazzling winter light shows across major cities.
â—˜Seasonal delights: Enjoy juicy winter strawberries and warm street foods like hotteok (sweet pancakes).
​Whether you admire autumn’s golden hues or enjoy thrilling winter festivals, Korea offers a perfect mix of culture, nature and seasonal charm.
Must-try dishes when you visit Korea
Ganjanggejang: Korea’s ultimate ‘rice thief’
Ganjanggejang, or soy sauce marinated crab, is one of Korea’s most iconic dishes. It is famously nicknamed the “rice thief” because bowls of rice seem to disappear when paired with it.
The dish is made by marinating fresh blue crabs in a flavourful soy sauce seasoned with onion, chilli, kelp and ginger for several days. This process allows the rich, salty-sweet taste to infuse into the crab meat.
Blue crabs are in season twice a year. Female crabs full of roe appear in spring and plump male crabs in autumn. Both periods are perfect to enjoy this delicacy. While ganjanggejang is the classic version, those who love spice can try yangnyeomgejang. This chilli-marinated alternative mixes heat with the crab’s natural sweetness.
Many people enjoy ganjanggejang by scooping rice into the crab shell and mixing it with the creamy tomalley and roe. This dish is more than food – it is a tradition that has been loved for generations along Korea’s western coast, especially in Incheon.
Kalguksu: Knife-cut noodle soup (autumn and winter comfort food)
A bowl of kalguksu is Korea’s ultimate comfort food on a chilly day. The name originates from kal (meaning knife) and guksu (referring to noodles), as the chewy noodles are hand-cut with a knife.
Daejeon is well known for this dish, with over 700 kalguksu restaurants showing just how much the city loves noodle soup. The broth can be made from beef bones, chicken or seafood, each giving its own special taste. Some popular types are:
â—˜Dak kalguksu (chicken) – Light yet hearty.
â—˜Haemul kalguksu (seafood) – Savoury and refreshing with clams and anchovies.
â—˜Bajirak kalguksu (clam) – Rich, briny broth with generous fresh clams.
On a rainy afternoon or a cold winter night, many Koreans turn to kalguksu for comfort. It is a favourite way to warm up and feel at home.
Saejogae: Egg cockles (winter delicacy)
Saejogae (egg cockles) available from December to May, are at their best between December and March when the waters of Korea’s west coast are coldest. In Chungcheongnam-do, particularly at Namdang Port in Hongseong, dozens of restaurants specialise in serving this rare delicacy.
The egg cockle’s name comes from the shape of its meat, which resembles a bird’s beak. While it can be enjoyed raw in a hoe muchim (sashimi salad), the highlight is egg cockle shabu-shabu. The clams are lightly boiled in a savoury broth made with vegetables, anchovies and kelp. For best results, cook them for just eight seconds to preserve their sweetness and tenderness.
Many restaurants end the meal by adding kalguksu noodles or fried rice to the leftover broth, making a rich and satisfying finish. Egg cockles are more than just tasty, they are part of local culture and come from the special mudflats of Korea’s west coast.
With each visit, you will find new colours, flavours and unforgettable memories, just like a scene from your favourite K-drama.
To start planning your own journey, visit Korea Tourism Organisation at Matta Fair 2025, happening today until Sunday at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Booth 3G25, Level 3, Hall 10). You can experience the winter tale of Korea through exciting activities, cultural experiences and prizes.
See you at the event, and maybe even in Korea!