Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Seoul. By late October, the summer humidity has disappeared, temperatures are cooler, and the city’s parks and walking trails begin turning brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

One of the best places to experience autumn is along Seoul’s many urban streams, including Yangjaecheon (양재천), where tree-lined paths, peaceful waterways, and colorful foliage offer a relaxing escape from busy city life. Many cafes, bakeries, and European-style restaurants and brunch spots are also here.

Autumn is also a wonderful time to spot local wildlife, including the Korean magpie (까치), a familiar black-and-white bird often associated with good luck.

The colorful season is called danpung (단풍), referring to autumn foliage. Peak colors in Seoul generally arrive from late October through early November, making this an ideal time for outdoor walks and photography.

Orientalist Magpie – distinctive black head, white belly, iridescent blue wings, and long tail.

In Korean culture, the magpie is traditionally considered a symbol of good luck and welcome news. It is also widely recognized as South Korea’s national bird, although that designation is customary rather than formally established by law.

Magpies are highly intelligent members of the crow family (Corvidae). They’re common in Seoul’s parks, neighborhoods, and along streams such as where the picture was taken, Yangjae-cheon.

MToday’s Korean Vocabulary:

• 가을 (gaeul) – Autumn / Fall
• 단풍 (danpung) – Autumn foliage
• 낙엽 (nagyeop) – Fallen leaves
• 산책 (sanchaek) – Walk / Stroll
• 까치 (kkachi) – Magpie
• 선선하다 (seonseonhada) – To be pleasantly cool

Related articles

• Wonderful autumn day part one and part two
• Autumn leaves
• Autumn in Seoul
• Autumn palaces
• Autumn heatwaves

Useful Korean Expression:

가을 산책하기 좋은 날씨예요.

Ga-eul sanchaek-hagi joh-eun nalssi-yeyo.

“It’s perfect weather for an autumn walk.”

---