October's busiest days in Seoul, and how to dodge them

China's biggest holiday week and two Korean long weekends land back to back.

TRAVEL TIP · UPDATED 2026-09-30

Image: AI illustration

Busiest

Oct 1–7, Oct 3–5, Oct 9–11

Calmer

Weekdays Oct 6–8

Tip

Big sights early in the morning

The calendar

1. OCT 1–7China's National Day "Golden Week"

   Expect crowds in Myeongdong, the palaces and duty-free shops.

   명동CopyGoogle Maps
2. OCT 3–5National Foundation Day long weekend

   Sat Oct 3 is the holiday, so Mon Oct 5 is a substitute holiday.

3. OCT 6–8Weekdays in between

   Your calmer window for palaces, museums and popular restaurants.

4. OCT 7–11Royal Culture Festival

   Palaces stay busy during the festival.

5. OCT 9–11Hangul Day long weekend

   Friday Oct 9 is a public holiday.

Local tips

• Start with the palaces early; crowds build through the day.
• From Oct 1 you can book Korail trains up to two months ahead; holiday-weekend seats go first.
• Book or call ahead for popular restaurants on the long weekends.

Sources: Seoul Metropolitan Government via Financial News (Sep 15, 2026) · Vegan News (2026 holiday calendar) · Money Today (Korail)