November is here and Korea will slowly start shifting into winter. There are fewer outdoor events and festivals in November which gives us a chance to enjoy more of the eating and drinking culture in Korea. 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 between 22°C (71.6°F) ~ 10°C (50°F) during the day and a chilly 10°C (50°F) ~ 0°C (32°F) at night. The beginning of the month is expected to hover in the 20’s before dropping to 10 (and under) right before December. Early November is still a great time to sit on terraces and go for walks in the park to enjoy the autumn foliage before the frost sets in.
WHAT TO WEAR
November is the end of autumn and beginning of winter. The early part of November had a bit more heat than we’re used to with surprisingly humid days. The first two weeks of November are warm enough for cardigans or thicker sweaters. We should be looking at single digits by the end of the month which means puffer jackets and scarves.
EVENTS
H Village at The Hyundai
When: Until December 31, 2023
Where: The Hyundai (108 Yeoui-daero)
The biggest (and most crowded) Christmas village pop-up in Seoul goes until the end of the year. It’s part Christmas market (with bakery, jams, macaroons, and ornaments) and part photo op with lots “sets” to take photos in. Entry is free, but you’ll have to stand in a virtual line to get in. Crowds are fierce so arrive early to get your place in “line.”
For more information on the H Village including how to make a reservation, check out our post.
League of Legends Fan Fest
When: Friday to Monday
Where: Gwanghwamun Square
South Korean team, T1, is in the final round of the League of Legends World Championship. And to celebrate, Seoul will be setting up a stage with large screen on Sunday to livestream the final round from the Gocheok Sky Dome. But, perhaps more importantly, there’ll be a free concert, Saturday at 3:30 PM featuring (G)I-DLE, Mushvenom, and F.T. Island along with DJ Alan Walker and Nicki Taylor.
There are also going to be video games developed by local developers that visitors can play.
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 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!
Joseon Royal Tomb Hiking Trails
When: Until November 30
Where: Multiple Locations
Until the end of November, eight royal Joseon era tombs and their forest hiking trails will be open to the public. These trails are normally closed off, but they were opened for the autumn season so visitors could have the chance to enjoy the fall foliage.
The rarely opened forest trails are Donggureung in Guri, Gyeonggi Province; Gwangneung and Sareung in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province; Taereung and Gangneung in northern Seoul; Samneung and Jangneung in Paju, Gyeonggi Province; Yungneung and Geolleung in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province and Yeongneung in Yeoju. There is also a trail in northern Seoul that starts from Gangneung and leads to Taereung. The trails will be open to the public from 9 AM to 4 PM.
Royal Court Dance at Changgyeongung
When: November 4th, 11th
Where: Changgyeonggung Palace
A reinactment of a traditional royal court dance is will be held on November 4th and 11th at Changgyeongung Palace in Seoul. The performances are scheduled to start at 3 PM.
Busan Fireworks Festival
When: November 4th
Where: Gwangalli Beach
The Busan Fireworks Festival is celebrating its eighteenth anniversary with a variety of programs including music, cultural programs and, of course, fireworks.
Hueree Pink Muhly Festival
When: Until November 15th
Where: Seogwipo-si, Jeju
The Hueree Natural Park in Namwon-eup is a special garden dedicated to pink muhly. There’s also citrus picking and horseback riding.
Seoul Outdoor Library
When: Every weekend until November 12th
Where: Seoul Plaza (Taepyeongro 2-ga 17-3)
The Seoul Outdoor Library in Seoul Plaza (official site) will run until November 12th. Seoul Plaza will be filled with bean bag chairs and parasols for any visitors who want to get a bit of outdoor reading done. Or, you know, just chill. Keep an eye on weather reports because the event will be cancelled if it rains.
American Thanksgiving
American Thanksgiving may not be an official holiday here in Korea, but there are plenty of reasons to celebrate it. 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.
