Seoraksan observes first autumn foliage of the year

The first autumn foliage of the year has been observed at Seoraksan, starting at an altitude of 1,708 meters. According to the Gangwon Regional Meteorological Administration, the onset of foliage occurred on September 28, which aligns with the average annual date but is four days earlier than last year.

Foliage is considered to have officially begun when approximately 20% of the mountain is colored, with the peak season occurring when about 80% is covered. While the start date matches the seasonal average, the peak foliage is expected to follow the typical pattern, which usually occurs about 20 days after the initial observation.

To assist visitors, the Gangwon Regional Meteorological Administration is operating a specialized autumn foliage and weather convergence service. In collaboration with the Eastern District Forest Office, Korea National Park Service, and various private resorts, the service provides real-time photos, CCTV footage, and drone videos of foliage status across 33 trail points and 13 major mountain locations in the Gangwon region.