If you would ask me for my favorite Korea Travel Month: It’s September! The hot and humid weather slowly comes to an end but there are still as many cultural events and festivals like in summer and spring. Find tips like this and everything else you might have to think of when visiting Korea in September in this blog post.
How is September in South Korea?
September is one of my favorite travel months! The weather gets bearable again, the rainy season is over, there are endless festivals and events and it is not as crowded yet in comparison to End of October (Fall Foliage).
How’s the weather in September?
During September in Korea temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F) making it a comfortable time to explore the country and one of my favorite seasons here! While daytime temperatures are mild, evenings and nights can be cooler, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater when you’re out in the evening.
September has an average of 8 rain days. I don’t think you will need it, but just to be safe: Check the weather forecast regularly and bring an umbrella if necessary (or see if Koreans carry an umbrella, as they are always prepared :D).
Another thing you should keep in mind is that with fall temperatures and sunny days the fine dust pollution might also get worse. I highly recommend checking the “AQI” daily and if you see a red number better plan some indoor activities or wear a mask! Be especially careful on days with bad air quality AND rain!
What should I bring to Korea?
Now, onto the important stuff – what to pack. September is still quite hot in Korea, but don’t underestimate the chill temperatures in public transportation due to the fully turned on aircon and the temperature drop at night. And I also always recommend to bring comfortable footwear, a portable battery and – if you need – a travel pharmacy from your home country as Korean medication hits quite different 😀
Are there public holidays in September?
Yes, there is a Public Holiday in September in 2024. Chuseok will be celebrated from September 16-18 and it is – together with Seollal (Korean New Year) – one of South Korea’s most important and celebrated holidays. As it follows the lunar calendar, the date changes every year.
Chuseok is a traditional harvest festival that has deep cultural and historical significance in Korea, and it is a time for families to come together, express gratitude for the year’s harvest, and pay respects to their ancestors. This holiday counts as a so called “Red Day” (Public Holiday), so many places will be closed! Make sure to check opening hours in NaverMaps before going somewhere and get train tickets long in advance if you plan to travel to another city.
Check my Chuseok Tips in >this Blog Post.
General South Korea Travel Guide
In this South Korea Guide, I cover everything you need to know for an amazing South Korea trip (not related to a specific month) from Basic Information about the country, weather all around the year, Visa and Entry Requirements, best Korean SIM Cards, Transportation, Must Visit Spots and Recommended Activities in Korea.
What to do in Korea in September?
Festivals & Events in Seoul
August in Korea is still really really hot, but as the monsoon season slowly comes to an end, you will be able to explore the outside a bit more! Here some of the most popular festivals happening in Seoul every year around August.
Seoul Outdoor Library
Read a book and relax with others at Seoul’s Outdoor Library Events. They usually include some English books, but in general I would recommend bringing your own books and drinks.
🗓️ 2024: May 17 – September 29
💸 free admission
| Gwanghwamun Square | Friday – Sunday | 4-9pm |
| Seoul Plaza | Thursday – Sunday | 4-9pm |
| Cheonggyecheon Stream | Friday – Saturday | 12-8pm |
Seoul Dal
This helium balloon in the form of a full moon, began its installation work at Yeouido Park’s Grass Field from April 29th! Now it is finally open to the public and you can take it at Yeouido Park. But keep in mind, that the operation depends a lot on the weather!
🗓️ 2024: started August 23th
⏰ Tuesday – Sunday: 12-10pm
💸 Adults (19-64): 25,000 KRW, Minors (3-18) & Seniors (65+): 20,000 KRW
📍서울 영등포구 여의도동 여의공원로 68
🗺️ https://naver.me/GBfl16RY
DDP Seoul Light & Seoul Fashion Week
Every year in September the Dongdaemun Design Plaza – short DDP – shines bright in different colors. Those Light Shows are made by famous Korean artists and offer a unique immersive experience in the evening.
🗓️ Seoul Light: August 28 – September 8
🗓️ Fashion Week: September 3 – 7
⏰ 8-10pm
💸 free
📍서울 중구 을지로 281
🗺️ https://naver.me/FeOCTmVS
Game e-sports Seoul (GES)
E-Sport-Fans listen: Seoul will host the premier game and e-sports festival this year at Kyunghee University! From the national PubG Championship to various game shows, conferences and Networking Events!
🗓️ 2024: September 6-8
⏰ 11am – 10pm
📍Kyunghee University, Peace Hall
Doo Doo Festival
This is a festival at the Banpo Bridge right above the famous Han River. This “healing Playground for All Five Senses” is happening every Sunday with various performances, event areas and activities.
🗓️ 2024: every Sunday from September 1 – October 27
⏰ 1pm – 9pm
💸 free admission
📍서울 서초구 올림픽대로 2085-14 세빛섬
🗺️ https://naver.me/FXZrZlwo
Gangnam Festival
One of the most famous districts in Seoul is having a Party! In September Gangnam will be hosting many events and activities between skyscrapers and endless shops. On Sunday 7pm there will be a K-Pop Festival at Yeongdong-Daero close to COEX Mall.
🗓️ 2024: September 26 – 29
💸 partly free, partly paid admission
📍서울 강남구 삼성동
🗺️ https://naver.me/FO9RrecB
Festivals in other cities
I always recommend South Korea Travelers to leave the big cities at least once during their trip. There are many amazing organized group tours or destinations you can travel to by yourself!
She can travel Busan – NomadHer Festival 2024
2024: September 27 – 29
A Festival for Female Globetrotters happening in the beautiful coastal city of Busan with:
- Talks Shows
- Workshops
- Networking
- Surfing, Gong Yoga, Muay Thai, K-Pop Dance Classes
- Live Music (Jeong Hee Lim & Sooim Cho)
- and much more!
I will be a speaker on Day 3 of the Festival and I will be at the Festival the whole time, so please come say “Hi” if you see me!
Taean Autumn Flower Expo
2024: September 15 – October 31
The Taean Autumn Flower Festival is held near Kkotji Beach along the western coast. You can admire a variety of autumn blooms, including chrysanthemums, verbenas, sunflowers, and globe amaranths.
Hueree Pink Muhly Festival
2024: starting September 13
At the base of Hallasan Mountain, Hueree Natural Park hosts the Pink Muhly Festival each fall. The vibrant pink fields make for stunning photos and a unique experience on Jeju Island.
Muju Firefly Festival
2024: August 31 – September 8
Imagine thousand fireflies in a beautiful Korean forest and some fun activities and classes surrounding those beautiful little bugs. All this and mores is possible to experience at the Muju Firefly Festival.
Tongyeong Night Festival
2024: September 20-21
Tongyeong is definitely a hidden gem in Korea and as it is close to Busan, it’s quite convenient to get there. It offers a fresh take on nighttime tourism while supporting local economic growth by showcasing the city’s rich history and culture with diverse attractions and experiences.
Andong Mask Dance Festival
2024: September 27 – October 6
Andong is famous among Koreans for valuing traditions a lot. From traditional Soju to very unique dishes to the famous Andong Mask Dance. So every year they hold this celebration with lots of fun activities and experiences.
Take a Yacht Tour
One of my all-time favourite activities in Seoul and Busan: A River or Ocean Yacht Tour! There are many options, but I personally tried and can recommend the following two:
Explore other cities
Embarking on a day trip from Seoul is a fantastic way to explore South Korea’s diverse landscapes and historical sites.
A visit to the Korean Folk Village and Suwon, just an hour away from Seoul, allows you to experience the Korean Folk Village and stroll along the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon.
For a more solemn experience, consider a visit to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), which takes approximately two hours to reach.
Finally, you can have a day trip to Jeonju and its famous Hanok Village. The area around the city is known for its picturesque landscapes especially during winter.
See the city from above
Perched atop Namsan Mountain in the heart of the city you can find the N Seoul Tower – often simply called Namsan Tower. Not only does it provide breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul’s sprawling cityscape, but it also offers cultural performances every day at 3 PM and has some great photospots like the lock filled walls of the viewing platform.
Another great place for awesome city views is the Lotte Tower’s Seoul Sky Observatory, located in the Jamsil district. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits before ascending to the rooftop observatory or even book the Sky Bridge Tour to have a walk outside on 555m height.
I can also recommend you to have a walk around the Seokchon Lakes and walk to the Lotte World Castle, which you actually can see without going into the amusement park itself.
Have a Selfcare-Day
Combine relaxation and cultural immersion by visiting a Jjimjilbang (찜질방) – a traditional Korean bathhouse. Upon entering, you’re enveloped in a world of soothing saunas, hot baths, and special treatments. The gentle heat of the Korean saunas, ranging from intense to mild, helps release tension and detoxify the body. After a leisurely soak in therapeutic mineral baths, you can indulge in a Korean body scrub that leaves your skin feeling soft and revitalized. Alternatively you can get a massage or one of Korea’s famous skin treatments in one of the great facilities below. This self-care day in Korea allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a wellness oasis steeped in Korean tradition.
Watch Performances
The “Nanta Cooking Show” and “Painter’s Show” are two captivating performances in Seoul. “Nanta” is a comedy combining cooking and drumming, while “Painters Show” blends live painting, multimedia art, and humor. Both shows offer unique, interactive experiences combined with some Korean cultural insights that entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making them must-see attractions in Seoul.
Take a cooking class
Korean cooking classes provide a hands-on experience in preparing traditional Seollal dishes like colorful rice cakes, Korea’s National dish Kimchi, or a whole set of meals like Bulgogi (marinated grilled meat) or Korean stews. Guided by expert instructors, participants not only learn the secrets of these time-honored recipes but also gain insight into the significance of each dish in Korean Cuisine. It’s a delightful opportunity to connect with the essence of Korean traditions and share in the joy of creating and savoring these delectable treats with loved ones.
Craft your own souvenirs
Instead of buying souvenirs I can highly recommend to try one of many special activities and experiences in South Korea. It’s not just great to make a very personal gift for yourself or your loved ones at home, but it’s also a perfect way to learn more about Korean Culture and connect with locals. You can usually book them in English,
Mother of Pearl
Make accessories with the Korean traditional Najeon Technique!
Perfume Making
Make your own Perfume step by step with English guidance!
Stone Stamp
Make your own traditional Korean stone stamp that was used to sign contracts!
Leather Goods
Make yourself a wallet, small glasses case or a leather hand bag!
Wooden Rings
Special rings made of wood for couples, solo travelers or friends!
Traditional Dyeing
Dye a scarf or tote bag with the traditional Jjokbit Color.
Find more in my FREE Experience Guide ↓
Traveling to South Korea in September means you should prepare for all different kinds of weather and events. From City or Music Festivals all over the country to other events and activities – there are many things to explore! Will you visit Korea in September? Let me know your tips in the comments!
