BEST 5 Things to Do in Seoul This October

If you're planning a trip to Seoul, October is a fantastic choice.

The sweltering heat of summer has passed, replaced by a refreshing breeze perfect for exploring the city all day long. From ancient palaces just beginning to show their autumn colors to the Han River at sunset and the trendy streets of Seongsu, this is the season to truly savor Seoul's autumn. If it's your first time in Seoul, consider adding experiences unique to the city beyond just the famous landmarks.

WAUG has picked five must-do activities for Seoul in October.

01. Stroll Through Gyeongbok Palace in Hanbok
The most quintessentially Seoul experience in autumn

October is the ideal time to wear a hanbok at Gyeongbok Palace. Thanks to the cooler weather, you can explore the ancient palace more comfortably than in summer, and as the month progresses, the trees start to change color, creating a beautiful scene with the traditional architecture.

While simply renting a hanbok is a great option, for a more special memory, consider a hanbok photoshoot with a professional photographer. Against the backdrop of the palace's tiled roofs, stone walls, and traditional alleys, you can capture a truly memorable travel moment. An experience with a high-quality outcome, like a photoshoot with an award-winning professional photographer, can become your most treasured souvenir from Seoul.

02. Enjoy Autumn by the Han River
Seoul's afternoons are best spent slowly by the Han River

With the pleasant weather in October, it feels a shame to stay indoors. Head to the Han River like the locals do. Cycling along the riverbank is enjoyable, or you could grab some ramen from a convenience store for a picnic. Watching the Seoul sunset from the riverbank as dusk settles is also quite beautiful.

For a more unique experience, opt for a Han River cruise. As dusk falls, the city's buildings begin to light up one by one, and the bridges illuminate, making the same Seoul feel like a completely different city. Be sure to include time by the Han River in your October itinerary.

03. Experience K-Beauty Firsthand
In Seoul, beauty is also a part of your travel experience

The purpose of visiting Seoul is evolving. Travelers are increasingly coming to Seoul not just for food and shopping, but also for unique Korean experiences like skincare, personal color analysis, head spas, and traditional Korean medicine clinics – K-beauty and wellness experiences only available in Korea.

In areas like Gangnam and Myeongdong, there are beauty clinics and various experiences conveniently accessible for international travelers. Consult with a specialist about your skin condition to receive personalized treatments, discover your best colors through personal color analysis, and then continue with some Korean cosmetic shopping. It's a way to experience K-beauty more deeply than just buying products.

04. Discover Contemporary Seoul in Seongsu
After experiencing traditional Seoul, head to the newest part of the city

If you spent your morning exploring the historic Seoul at Gyeongbok Palace, head to Seongsu in the afternoon. Old factories and warehouses have been transformed into cafes, select shops, and flagship stores for fashion brands, making Seongsu one of the fastest-changing neighborhoods in Seoul today. Enjoy the charm of wandering through alleys, discovering hidden cafes, and stumbling upon showrooms and pop-up stores of Korean brands.

Think of it as a neighborhood where you can discover what Seoulites love right now, rather than following a set tourist route. Seongsu's appeal is even more evident in pleasant walking weather like in October.

05. Embrace Seoul's Nights
The journey doesn't end when the sun goes down

There's plenty to do in Seoul at night in October. You could enjoy the night view from N Seoul Tower, catch a performance, or take a walk around the Han River to wrap up your day.

For a more uniquely Korean evening, consider watching a performance. From K-pop to non-verbal shows and even ladies-only standing shows, Seoul offers a surprisingly diverse range of nighttime entertainment. After exploring palaces and Seongsu during the day, experience a completely different side of Seoul at night. Those unexpected hours might just become the most memorable part of your trip.

Step Outside in October's Seoul

The reason October in Seoul is so special isn't just about a particular festival. You can walk through ancient palaces in a hanbok in the morning, explore Seongsu and the Han River in the afternoon, experience K-beauty, and enjoy performances and night views. Most importantly, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, making it perfect for simply walking and enjoying the city of Seoul itself.

From hanbok photoshoots and K-beauty experiences to Han River cruises and various Seoul performances, you can pre-book these must-do Seoul experiences through WAUG. This autumn, instead of just checking off famous tourist spots, fill your days with experiences only possible in Seoul.

That's when Seoul in October is at its most captivating.