Traveling in Korea During Chuseok 2026: What Tourists Need to Know

Planning a trip to Korea in late September 2026?

You may discover that your vacation overlaps with Chuseok (추석), one of Korea’s biggest traditional holidays.

Don’t worry — you can still enjoy Korea during Chuseok.

However, transportation can be extremely busy, and some restaurants and shops may close.

Here is what foreign visitors need to know.

When Is Chuseok 2026?

The official Chuseok holiday in 2026 runs from September 24 to 26, with Chuseok Day on Friday, September 25.

Chuseok is a major family holiday, and many Koreans travel from large cities to their hometowns.

That means your biggest concern is usually not sightseeing — it is long-distance transportation.

1. Book Long-Distance Transportation Early

KTX trains and express buses are especially busy around Chuseok.

If your itinerary includes:

Seoul → Busan
Seoul → Gyeongju
Seoul → Jeonju

check transportation availability as early as possible.

If you cannot secure convenient transportation, consider staying longer in one city instead of moving frequently during the holiday.

2. Expect Heavy Highway Traffic

Driving can also take longer than usual.

Large numbers of people travel to visit family, creating heavy traffic on major highways.

If you rent a car during Chuseok, allow extra travel time and avoid creating a schedule that depends on exact driving times.

For many international visitors, public transportation within Seoul is easier than driving long distances during the holiday.

3. Do Restaurants Close During Chuseok?

Some do — but Korea does not completely shut down.

Many restaurants and businesses in major tourist districts may remain open, while smaller independent businesses can close or operate shorter hours.

The safest approach is:

Check the restaurant’s latest opening hours before you go.

It is also smart to have one or two alternative restaurants nearby.

4. Can You Visit Tourist Attractions?

Yes.

Many major tourist attractions remain accessible during Korean public holidays, and some cultural attractions may offer special programs or admission arrangements during Chuseok.

Holiday periods can also bring traditional performances and cultural experiences.

However, schedules vary by attraction. Some individual attractions specifically close on Chuseok Day, so always check the current official schedule rather than assuming everything is open.

5. Is Staying in Seoul a Good Idea?

For many first-time visitors, yes.

If you stay in Seoul during the busiest part of Chuseok, you can avoid much of the stress associated with intercity transportation.

You can explore areas such as:

Gyeongbokgung Palace
Bukchon
Myeongdong
Hongdae
Hangang River

depending on holiday opening schedules.

Then continue to Busan, Gyeongju or another destination after the busiest travel period.

6. Visit a Traditional Market Before Chuseok

If possible, visit a Korean traditional market before Chuseok Day.

Markets can become especially interesting as people shop for fruit, meat, rice cakes and ingredients for holiday meals.

It is a great opportunity to see Chuseok as part of everyday Korean life rather than simply reading about it.

On Chuseok Day itself, however, some individual vendors may be closed.

Quick Chuseok Travel Checklist

✓ Check your travel dates
September 24–26, 2026

✓ Book intercity transportation early

✓ Allow extra time for highway travel

✓ Check restaurant opening hours

✓ Confirm attraction schedules

✓ Keep your itinerary flexible

Final Thoughts

Traveling in Korea during Chuseok is not something you need to avoid.

In fact, it can be a fascinating time to experience Korean food, family traditions and holiday culture.

The key is simply to plan differently.

Book long-distance transportation early, check opening hours and avoid packing too many city-to-city journeys into the busiest days.

With a little preparation, Chuseok can become one of the most memorable parts of your Korea trip.

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