November is here and Korea will slowly start shifting into winter. There are fewer outdoor events and festivals in November which gives you a chance to enjoy more of the eating and drinking culture. The weather has gotten very cold very quickly, so for anyone looking to visit in winter (November – January), make sure to dress warm.

TEMPERATURE

Winter is coming with temperatures slowly dipping into the single digits from 16°C (61°F) ~ 8°C (46°F) during the day and a downright frigid 6°C (43°F) ~ 0°C (32°F) at night. If you want to spend your days lounging about on verandas and in outdoor seating, the first week or two of the month is your best bet. This year, the summer lasted longer than usual and forecasters have said that winter will likewise be starting earlier this year.

WHAT TO WEAR

November is the end of fall and beginning of winter. While we had a few mild weeks last year, we’ll be heading straight into winter-like temperatures within the first two weeks of the month. This year we experienced the hottest summer in 3 decades and meteorologist are predicting an equally harsh winter.

Take it from us, a nice hoodie and a jacket is fine for days when the temperature is above 12°C (54°C). Anything below that and we’re doubling up with scarves or just heading straight into puffer jackets. If you’re sensitive to cold weather, you may even what to have a pair of gloves or mittens on hand.

If you’ll be spending a lot of time outside at night, it’s better to err on the side of caution by dressing too warm rather than be stuck shivering in the cold.

EVENTS

Le Grand Theatre at The Hyundai

• When: November 1 ~ December 31, 2024
• Where:
  • 서울 영등포구 여의대로 108 더현대 서울 (Naver Map)
  • 108 Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul (Google Maps)

Last year, the biggest Christmas pop-up was the H Village at The Hyundai in Yeouido. Every year The Hyundai Seoul creates a beautiful indoor Christmas village with a unique theme. This year, they’re back with LE GRAND THEATER which promises to be a moving grand theater. The pop-up starts in November and goes until the end of December!

For more information on last year’s pop-up, check out our post on the H Village at The Hyundai.

Seokjojeon at Night

• When: Until November 2, 2024
• Address:
  • 서울 중구 세종대로 99 (Naver Map)
  • 99 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul (Google Maps)

Seokjojeon is located in Deoksugung Palace across the street from Seoul City Hall. It is a western-styled structure built by Emperor Gojong, the last imperial ruler of Korea. The Seokjojeon at Night event features a tour of the grounds which includes original furniture from the Empire of Korea and a light history lesson. The real highlight is sitting on the terrace with tea and live music. It is an absolutely awesome experience that everyone should experience. Check out this site for more details.

Changgyeonggung Moonlight Tour

• When: Until November 10, 2024
• Where:
  • 서울 종로구 창경궁로 185 창경궁 (Naver Map)
  • 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno District, Seoul (Google Maps)

Of the many late night tours of the Seoul palaces, this one might be our favorite. The tour features a late night walkthrough of the secret garden behind Changdeokgung. Even during the day, visitors are only allowed in via guided tour groups. This moonlight tour features a late-night tour, tea, and traditional Korean music. We visited a few years ago (blog) and it was an amazing experience. Tickets can be difficult to come by, but the experience is worth it.

2024 Seoul Outdoor Library

• When: Until November 10, 2024
• Where:
  • Gwanghwamun Plaza (Google Maps, Naver Map)
  • Cheonggyecheon Stream (Google Maps, Naver Map)
  • Seoul Plaza (Google Maps, Naver Map)

Seoul will be hosting public outdoor library spaces throughout the city, giving folks a chance to sit down and disconnect from the internet. Depending on the location, there are bean bag chairs, play areas, and flea markets. If you’re looking for a spot to relax, the outdoor library spaces are worth checking out.

A Celebration of Han Kang’s Novel Prize

• When: Every weekend until November 12th
• Where:
  • 서울 중구 태평로2가 (Naver Map)
  • 110 Sejong-daero, Jung District (Google Maps)

The Seoul Outdoor Libraries have been running nearly all year long, but with the announcement of Han Kang’s Nobel Prize, the event had taken on a twist. Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon Stream will host a special exhibition featuring the celebrated author’s works. This will include translations into 20 languages including English, Japanese, Chinese and Arabic.

Peppero Day

When: November 11

Does November 11th (11/11) look like 4 Peppero sticks? Sure. Is it necessary to have a holiday to binge on chocolate snacks and gift them loved ones? No, but it’s always nice to have a reason.

Whatever the reason or excuse, the days leading up to November 11th see a massive number of sales for this choco-biscuit snack. So whether you’re buying them for a special someone, or maybe for yourself, eat up and enjoy! Or, if you’re interested in making some at home, check out our recipe!

American Thanksgiving

American Thanksgiving may not be an official holiday here in Korea, but it’s still a great excuse to get together with family over some delicious food and give thanks. Mostly the food, though. If you’ve got the need for turkey with all the trimmings, we’ve got a comprehensive guide on where to get a delicious meal this year.