November is one of the driest months of the year and although you won't be spoilt with the peak fall foliage ever-present during October, you can still catch the last few weeks of beautiful autumn colors during November. It is definitely cold, especially towards the end of the month, and while snow is rare, it is possible. The temperatures range from highs of 16°C (61°F) to lows of 1°C (34°F).
The beginning of November, with the last remnants of autumn landscapes it possesses, does still attract some crowds but generally speaking, November is far quieter than October. It's quite cold but you can enjoy the different tourist attractions without having to worry about waiting in long lines Moreover, prices for accommodation and airfare are far lower than they are during most months of the year. It is especially important to dress in layers to keep warm, particularly during the second half of November.
To get an in-depth understanding of what to expect insofar as weather conditions are concerned during November, keep reading below.
South Korea Weather in November: Overview
- Average temperature range: 1°C – 16°C (34°F – 61°F)
- Rainfall: 45 mm (2 inches) in Seoul; 38 mm (1.5 inches) in Busan; 70 mm (3 inches) in Jeju.
- Rainy days: 6 in Seoul; 6 in Busan; 9 in Jeju.
There's a very small chance of rain in November and an even smaller chance of it snowing. That being said, it's rare but not impossible, so you could be in some snowy luck towards the end of the month if that's what you're looking for.
The average maximum temperatures – usually recorded during daytime – are closer to the 11°C (52°F) mark in Seoul, 16°C (61°F) in Busan, and 16°C (61°F) in Jeju Island. The average minimum temperatures – usually recorded during nighttime – are closer to the 1°C (34°F) mark in Seoul, 7°C (45°F) in Busan, and 8°C (46°F) in Jeju Island.
November is a good time to visit South Korea if you're looking to catch the very last of the colorful fall foliage, spend some time hiking, or attend a flower festival.
Weather of South Korea's Major Cities in November
| City | Min. Temp | Max. Temp | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | 1°C (34°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 45 mm (2 inches) |
| Busan | 7°C (45°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 38 mm (1.5 inches) |
| Jeju Island | 8°C (46°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 70 mm (3 inches) |
| Taean | 2°C (36°F) | 12°C (54°F) | 52 mm (2 inches) |
| Gyeongju | 5°C (41°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 38 mm (1.5 inches) |
| Daejeon | 1°C (34°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 40 mm (1.5 inches) |
| Incheon | 3°C (37°F) | 12°C (54°F) | 50 mm (2 inches) |
Best Places to Visit in South Korea in November
1. Naejangsan National Park
Naejangsan National Park is in southeastern South Korea. The national park spans an area of 30 square meters and is home to its prized resident, the most magnificent mountain covered in the last remnants of fall foliage, Naejangsan. Hiking around the national park and taking in the views on a chilly yet clear day is one of the most pleasing experiences you can engage in during your time in South Korea during November.
2. Busan
It doesn't get as bitterly cold in Busan as it does in Seoul. This means, you can enjoy all that the coastal favorite of a city has to offer. While it will be too cold to take a dip in the city's waters, you can still relax on the beaches by taking strolls and enjoy seaside views. Remember to visit Haedong Yonggung Temple and the Gamcheon Cultural Village during your time in Busan.
3. Jeju Island
While you can expect it to rain for about a third of the month in Jeju Island during November, these will appear in the form of scattered drizzles or light rains. Overall, Jeju Island remains warmer than most places in the Korean peninsula during this time of year. It' a little chilly but this makes for the perfect weather in which to hike around different routes on the island, taking in cultural sites like museums and villages, but also natural wonders like waterfalls and UNESCO certified sites.
November Crowds and Costs
Overall, November doesn't attract as many tourists to South Korea as does October. The primary reason for this, of course, is that the fall foliage is at its absolute colorful peak during October and the weather has started to get significantly colder come mid-November. That being said, some crowds still remain at the start of November, at a time when some autumn colors still persist. As a result, prices are relatively low for most things including accommodation, airfare, entertainment, and dining.
The best part? You can enjoy your time in South Korea during November taking in the natural beauty and the cultural sites without having to worry about waiting in long lines or wading through hordes of people when sightseeing.
November Events in South Korea
Masan Chrysanthemum Festival: Changwon (formerly known as Masan) is responsible for 13% of global chrysanthemum farming nationwide. This festival takes place at the end of October or the beginning of November every year, and celebrates the famous flower and the area's excellent natural environment that is key to a thriving chrysanthemum harvest.
Cheongsong Apple Festival: Cheongsong has the perfect conditions for the growth of high-quality apple farming and the Apple Festival, held at the beginning of November every year, offers visitors the chance to take part in various different apple-related events and activities whilst also understanding the important Cheongsong's natural environment has on apple production and the steps that are being taken to promote sales of this national-favorite of an apple strain.
What to Wear in South Korea in November
The weather at the beginning of November is very different to that towards the end of the month. While sweaters, jackets, and jeans may suffice during the afternoons at the start of the month, you'll definitely need something more heavy-duty by mid to late November. Think thick sweaters, coats, and warm boots. The name of the game is keeping warm by dressing in layers.
Your packing list for a stylish yet comfortable time in South Korea during November should include plenty of long-sleeved shirts and tops, jeans, thick sweaters and cardigans, jackets, warm dresses, lightweight coats, scarves, gloves, winter hats, comfortable walking shoes, and warm boots.
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