September's arrival signaled the onset of autumn in Seoul, as it always does. The city is draped in foliage that changes from green to gold, orange, and red, creating a mesmerizing display that has become an integral part of South Korea's cultural heritage.
In recent years, the city has embraced the season with a gleeful spirit, hosting various festivals and celebrations to mark autumn in all its glory. From lantern-lit processions and harvest feasts to parades and firework shows, Seoul is transformed into a vibrant and colorful scene during the autumn months.
One such festival that never fails to delight visitors is the Yeouido Fish Market Festival. Held in late September or early October each year, this celebration of local cuisine brings together foodies from all over Korea for an unforgettable culinary experience. The market features a variety of seafood stalls, including fresh fish, squid, octopus, and sea urchins, as well as bite-sized treats like rice dumplings and stir-fried noodles.
Another must-visit festival during autumn in Seoul is the Changgyeonggung Palace Festival. This annual event takes place on the first Friday and Saturday of October each year, and features a reenactment of the palace's historic opening ceremony. Visitors can witness elaborate displays of traditional Korean performing arts like taekwondo, taekwangdoo, and taekyon, as well as cultural performances such as the Korean folk dance and Korean pop music.
Another popular event during autumn in Seoul is the Haeundae Beach Festival, which takes place on the weekend closest to September 15th each year. This celebration of Korea's cherry blossom season brings thousands of people from all over the city to Haeundae Beach for a feast of traditional Korean street food and drinks, including jjimjilbang (Korean sauna) and bibimbap (rice bowl with meat, vegetables, and seafood).
Seoul's cultural heritage is not limited to autumn. During spring or summer months, visitors can also indulge in the city's vibrant street culture, which takes many forms, from fashion shows to traditional Korean cultural events like the Korea Expo Festival. From art exhibitions to music festivals, Seoul offers a variety of opportunities for experiencing and appreciating the city's rich cultural heritage during the changing seasons.