Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in November, you’re in for an enchanting experience. November marks Korea’s transition from vibrant autumn to early hints of winter—offering crisp air, changing leaves, shorter lines at top attractions, and a cozy, calm atmosphere perfect for both sightseeing and seasonal festivals. This guide gives you everything you need to know about Korea’s weather in November, average temperatures by city, what to pack, the best places to visit, useful tables, practical facts, and answers to the most-searched traveler questions.
Why Visit Korea in November?
- Lingering Fall Foliage: Early November still dazzles with golden ginkgo and fiery maple leaves in many regions.
- Cool, Dry Weather: Rainfall is minimal, humidity is low, and there’s just a slight (but rare) chance of early snow by month’s end.
- Travel Value: Fewer tourists mean better deals on accommodation and airfare.
- Quieter Attractions: Major landmarks are less crowded than in the autumn foliage peak of October.
- Seasonal Experiences: Lantern festivals, hiking in fall colors, and cozy Korean food!
Korea Weather Overview: November Climate at a Glance
Korea’s climate in November is cool to cold, depending on where you are. Days are generally sunny, but temperatures fall quickly after sunset—making layers a traveler’s best friend.
Average Temperatures in Major Korean Cities (November 2025)
| City | Min Temp | Max Temp | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | 2°C (36°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 45 | 6–10 |
| Busan | 7°C (45°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 38 | 6 |
| Jeju Island | 8°C (46°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 62–70 | 9 |
| Incheon | 3°C (37°F) | 12°C (54°F) | 50 | 6 |
| Daejeon | 1°C (34°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 40 | 6 |
| Gyeongju | 5°C (41°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 41 | 6 |
| Sokcho | 5°C (40°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 79 | 7 |
| Jeonju | 4°C (38°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 50 | 6 |
| Taean | 2°C (36°F) | 12°C (54°F) | 52 | 6 |
- Daytime: Cool, jacket weather; ideal for walking and outdoor activities.
- Night: Chilly to cold—down jackets, gloves, and scarves recommended toward month’s end.
Daily Weather Breakdown
- Early November: 11–18°C daytime, ~5–7°C night, lingering fall colors.
- Mid-November: 8–13°C daytime, ~2–4°C night, colors fading, start layering.
- Late November: 2–8°C daytime, 0–3°C night, rare snow flurries possible, winter coat required.
November Weather Facts & Fun Data
- Hours of Daylight: About 10, with approximately 5 hours of strong sunshine.
- Humidity: Low (dry skin/chapstick may help).
- Rainfall: November is one of the driest months, with only 1–2 inches (25–50 mm) of precipitation.
- UV Index: Moderate, but sun can still be bright—sunglasses recommended.
- Air Quality: Generally good; less fine dust/pollution than spring.
- Wind: Breezy conditions, especially along the coast and in mountain areas.
What to Pack for Korea in November
| Essentials for Nov. | Reason | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Insulated jacket/coat | Cold mornings/evenings | Consider a puffer or down |
| Sweaters, hoodies, cardigans | Daytime warmth | Layering is key |
| Long pants/jeans | Leg warmth | Fleece-lined for late Nov. |
| Thermal top/bottoms | Late month or outdoors | Buy HEATTECH/Uniqlo in Korea |
| Hat, gloves, scarf | For cold snaps | Ears/hands chill fast |
| Waterproof shoes/boots | Rare rain/snow, long walks | |
| Sunscreen & chapstick | Bright but dry air | Chapped lips possible |
| Umbrella | Rare, but for drizzly days | Buy cheap at 7-Eleven |
| Adapter/charger | Korea is 220V, type C/F plug | Buy local if needed |
| Mask/air filter | For wind or city days | Optional, but common |
How Does Korea in November Compare to Other Months?
November’s transition from autumn to early winter is distinct for its:
- Cooler temperatures: Noticeably colder than October, with no remaining warm summer days.
- Shorter days: Earlier sunsets and crisp evenings encourage early sightseeing, easier restaurant bookings, and cozy nightlife.
- End of foliage: Early November features the last colors; by late month, most trees are bare.
Korea’s Best November Experiences
Foliage & Nature
- Nami Island: An autumn fantasy with yellow ginkgo avenues and fluffy red maples.
- Seoraksan National Park: Hiking among dramatic peaks and lingering fall colors.
- Jeju Island: Mild and beautiful, with late-season camellia and pumpkin festivals.
Festivals & Events
- Seoul Lantern Festival (early/mid-November): Along Cheonggyecheon Stream, glowing floats and cultural shows.
- Chrysanthemum Festivals in many cities: Carnivals of color, sculpture, and art.
- Harvest Bazaars: Enjoy traditional street food, roasted chestnuts, and local produce.
Cultural Highlights
- Gyeongju Historic Sites: Explore Silla-era palaces and temples in a cool, crowd-free setting.
- Palace Visits (Seoul): Wear Hanbok (traditional dress) for free palace entry and stunning autumn photos.
- Hot Springs (Oncheon, Suanbo): The perfect way to relax on chilly evenings.
Korea in November: Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Pack layers—weather can shift suddenly.
- Check indoor/outdoor opening hours, as some attractions close earlier.
- Book hotels/flights early for weekends—fall foliage and early ski trips draw locals.
- Try autumn special foods: roasted sweet potatoes, persimmon, hotteok (sweet pancakes).
Don’t:
- Assume it’s always warm—late November is true winter.
- Wait too long for autumn color; leaf forecasts can vary by year and location.
- Forget power plug adapters.
Quick-Reference – November Weather & Travel Summary
| Factor | Korea in November 2025 |
|---|---|
| Avg Day Temp | 8–16°C (46–61°F) |
| Avg Night Temp | 0–8°C (32–46°F) |
| Rainy Days | 6–9 |
| Snow Chance | Rare, mostly late Nov. in northern/mountain regions |
| Foliage | Early Nov last colors, gone by mid-late Nov |
| Tourists | Moderate, fewer crowds than October |
| Best Clothing | Layers, thermal wear, winter accessories |
| Highlight | Lantern festival, hiking, cozy cafes, spa/onsen visits |
| Daylight | ~10 hours |
Useful Traveler Facts (And Local Insights)
- Public transport is heated: Subway, buses, and taxis are all warm—just bundle up for outdoor walks.
- Coffee culture thrives: Korea’s cafes are stylish, warm, and great for resting between sights.
- Ski season begins: Slopes near Seoul open late November, usually with artificial snow.
- Theme parks and palaces: Open all month, but bring gloves for outdoor lines.
FAQs
Q: How cold is Korea in November?
A: Cool to cold; 8–16°C days, 0–8°C nights. Layering is essential.
Q: Does it snow in Korea in November?
A: Rare in most cities, possible in mountains or northern regions at end of month.
Q: Will there still be fall colors?
A: Early November yes, late November mostly bare trees; best to plan for first 1–2 weeks.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Early Nov—light layers; Late Nov—thermal base, sweater, down jacket, gloves, boots.
Q: Is Korea rainy in November?
A: No, it is one of the driest months.
Q: What is daylight like?
A: About 10 hours, sunsets as early as 5:30pm by month’s end.
Q: Are Korea’s November air quality and pollution a problem?
A: Not typically—better than spring/summer, but check daily forecast for PM2.5 updates.
Summary: Korea in November – Perfect for Travelers Who Love Crisp Air and Culture
Visiting Korea in November means brisk walks under clear skies, the last magical bursts of autumn color, heartwarming street food, and the cozy embrace of bustling yet peaceful city life. Fewer crowds and competitive deals make it an excellent choice for budget and slow travelers. Just remember to pack layers, charge your camera, and savor the special combination of Korean tradition and modern vibrancy that this transitional season brings.
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