Autumn Colors Arrive in Korea

Korea is gradually being painted in autumn colors. The leaves typically begin to turn when the temperature drops below 5 degrees Celsius.

This year, Mt. Seorak saw the first autumn foliage on Sept. 30, two days later than usual and the blazing colors are expected to reach their peak toward the end of the month.

In the Seoul metropolitan area, they will peak on Mt. Bukhan on Oct. 30, and in Gangwon Province, Mt. Odae and Mt. Wolak on Oct. 20 and 27, and in the Chungcheong region Mt. Sokri and Mt. Gyeryong on Oct. 30 and 31.

In southern regions, Mt. Jiri is expected to wear its fullest autumn colors on Oct. 27 and Mt. Naejang and Mudeung on Nov. 5 and 6. Mt. Halla in Jeju will see its best fall foliage on Oct. 29.

A temperature difference of 10-15 degrees Celsius between day and night will continue until mid-October to create ideal conditions.

Officials from the National Park Service urged hikers to remember that the sun sets more quickly in the fall and start their descent before 2 p.m.