Things to Do in Jeju in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Jeju
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather - temperatures stay between 19-26°C (66-79°F) with low humidity, ideal for Hallasan summit attempts and coastal trail walks
- Autumn foliage peaks in late October, transforming Hallasan's slopes and Bijarim Forest into brilliant reds and golds - the most photogenic month of the year
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs drop 30-40% from summer peaks while weather remains excellent for outdoor activities
- Tangerine harvest season begins, offering fresh fruit picking experiences and seasonal tangerine-flavored dishes at local restaurants
Considerations
- Occasional rain showers (7 days average) can disrupt outdoor plans, though they're typically light and brief compared to summer downpours
- Ocean temperatures drop to 20°C (68°F), making swimming less comfortable without a wetsuit
- Tourist sites can get crowded during Korean National Foundation Day weekend (early October) with domestic visitors
Best Activities in October
Hallasan National Park Hiking
October offers the best hiking conditions of the year with comfortable temperatures and stunning autumn colors. The Gwaneumsa and Seongpanak trails to the summit are most accessible, while lower elevation trails like Yeongsil showcase brilliant foliage without the 8-10 hour commitment. Morning starts (6-7am) provide clearest mountain views before afternoon clouds roll in.
Jeju Olle Trail Walking
Cool October temperatures make multi-day trail walking comfortable. Coastal routes 1, 2, and 7 offer spectacular ocean views with manageable 15-20km (9-12 mile) daily distances. The famous Route 7 from Wolpyeong to Witseoreum showcases both autumn forests and dramatic coastline. Morning starts avoid afternoon UV exposure.
Tangerine Farm Experiences
October marks the beginning of Jeju's famous tangerine harvest. Family-run farms in Seogwipo and Hallim offer pick-your-own experiences where you can sample different varieties and learn about cultivation methods. Many farms combine picking with traditional tea ceremonies using tangerine peels.
Sunrise Peak (Seongsan Ilchulbong) Photography Tours
October's clear skies and comfortable pre-dawn temperatures (around 16°C/61°F) create ideal conditions for sunrise photography. The volcanic crater provides dramatic foreground for sunrise shots, while autumn colors add depth to landscape compositions. Less crowded than summer months.
Autumn Forest Therapy Programs
October's mild weather and peak foliage make forest bathing programs especially therapeutic. Bijarim Forest and Gotjawal eco-trails offer guided mindfulness sessions among ancient nutmeg trees and volcanic rock formations. Programs combine gentle walking with meditation and traditional Korean wellness practices.
Coastal Hot Springs and Spa Treatments
October's cooler evenings make outdoor hot spring bathing particularly enjoyable. Jeju's seaside spas combine natural mineral waters with ocean views. The contrast between cool ocean breezes and warm therapeutic waters is most pleasant during autumn months.
October Events & Festivals
Jeju Tangerine Festival
Celebrates the beginning of harvest season with farm tours, cooking demonstrations, and traditional music performances. Local restaurants create special tangerine-themed menus, and farmers markets offer direct-from-tree purchases at wholesale prices.
Jeju Walking Festival
Annual celebration of the Olle Trail system featuring guided group walks, cultural performances at trail endpoints, and local food festivals. Participants receive commemorative trail stamps and traditional Jeju hiking gear.