Seoul in November: Weather, What to Wear and What to Pack

November in Seoul starts as crisp late autumn and ends close to early winter, so the safest plan is to pack layers: a warm mid-weight coat, a sweater or fleece, and a scarf for cold mornings and evenings. Daytime can still feel mild in early November, while late November mornings often drop near freezing.

November is the transition month between Seoul's autumn foliage season and winter. The air is usually dry and clear, which makes it a pleasant time for walking tours, palaces and markets, as long as you dress for a wide gap between daytime and nighttime temperatures.

What is the weather like in Seoul in November?

Expect cool, dry days and noticeably colder nights. Early in the month, a light jacket may be enough at midday. By the last week, many locals switch to padded coats, especially in the early morning and after sunset.

Wind makes it feel colder along the Han River and on hilltop viewpoints such as Namsan. If your itinerary includes evening river cruises or night markets, plan for the coldest part of the day.

What should I wear for a November trip?

Layering is the key. Indoor spaces such as subways, cafes and department stores are well heated, so you will want to take a layer off inside and put it back on outdoors.

Part of November	Typical feel	Suggested outfit
Early November	Cool and sunny	Light coat or trench, long sleeves
Mid November	Chilly mornings, mild afternoons	Mid-weight coat, sweater, scarf
Late November	Cold, winter approaching	Padded coat, warm layers, gloves
Evenings all month	Coldest time of day	Extra layer and a hat for outdoor plans

What else should I pack?

The dry air can be hard on skin and lips, so bring moisturizer and lip balm. Comfortable walking shoes matter more than usual because palace grounds, hiking trails and old neighborhoods involve slopes and uneven paths.

Is November a good time to visit Seoul?

Yes, for many travelers it is one of the most comfortable months. Early November often still has autumn colors in parks and palaces, and crowds are usually lighter than during peak foliage weekends in late October.

It is also a good month for food. Street snacks such as roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes appear as the weather cools, and warm soups feel especially welcome after a day outdoors.

How does the weather affect getting around?

Cold mornings make waiting at bus stops or taxi lines less pleasant, especially with luggage. If you arrive at Incheon Airport late at night or early in the morning, a pre-booked transfer means you go straight from the arrivals hall into a heated vehicle.

For day trips outside Seoul, check sunset times. Days get shorter through November, so plan outdoor sights earlier and leave evenings for indoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a heavy winter coat in November?
In early November, usually not. By late November, a padded or warm wool coat is a good idea, especially for evenings.

Will there be snow in Seoul in November?
Snow is uncommon, though an early light snowfall can occasionally happen near the end of the month.

Are autumn leaves still visible in November?
In early November many parks and palaces still have color, but it fades as the month goes on.