National recreation forests release regional fall foliage peak forecast map

A single map from the national recreation forest service is all visitors need to catch autumn foliage at its peak.

The Korea Forest Service's National Recreation Forest Management Office released the "2026 National Recreation Forest Fall Foliage Peak Forecast Map" on Thursday.

The map was developed using the Korea National Arboretum's "Korean Peninsula Peak Foliage Search Service" and details the expected peak foliage periods at national recreation forests across the country — beginning in Gangwon Province in late October and moving through Gyeonggi Province, the Chungcheong provinces, the Yeongnam region and the Honam region through mid-November.

Among the major recreation forests, Sambong Natural Recreation Forest in Gangwon Province is expected to turn first, reaching peak color on Oct. 21. Yumyeongsan Natural Recreation Forest in Gyeonggi Province, one of the most popular destinations in the greater Seoul area, follows on Oct. 31.

Into November, Jirisan Natural Recreation Forest in South Gyeongsang Province is forecast to peak on Nov. 2, and Heerisanhaesong Natural Recreation Forest in South Chungcheong Province on Nov. 4. At the southern tip of the peninsula, Jindo Natural Recreation Forest in South Jeolla Province is not expected to reach peak color until around Nov. 17.

Because most national recreation forests are nestled deep in the woods, they are considered ideal for immersive, stay-based foliage trips — visitors can take in the autumn colors while spending the night at forest lodges or campsites. Pairing the foliage experience with forest interpretation programs and forest-therapy activities can make for an even more restorative getaway.

"National recreation forests are spaces where visitors can encounter the forest's own colors and sounds most deeply and at their own pace," said Kim Il-suk, director of the National Recreation Forest Management Office. "We hope you will use the foliage map as a guide and carry the beautiful hues of the autumn forest in your heart, together with the people you love."