🇰🇷 What’s Open During Chuseok in Korea? Restaurants, Cafes, Shops & Attractions Guide (2026)
If you are planning a trip to South Korea during Chuseok, you might be wondering:
“Will everything be closed?”
“Can I still find restaurants?”
“Can I shop in Myeongdong?”
“Are tourist attractions open?”
These are some of the most common questions travelers have before visiting Korea during this major holiday.
Living in Korea, I understand why Chuseok can feel confusing for visitors. It is one of the biggest celebrations of the year, and many Koreans travel back to their hometowns to spend time with family, share traditional food, and honor their ancestors.
If you are unfamiliar with Chuseok, this celebration is an important part of Korean culture. Before planning your trip, you can learn more about its traditions, history, and meaning in my guide:
🇰🇷 What is Chuseok in Korea? A Beginner’s Guide for Tourists (2026)
From my experience during Chuseok, the atmosphere in Korea feels different. Some small restaurants, cafes, and local shops close for a few days, but popular tourist areas like Myeongdong and Hongdae remain lively. Many cafes, convenience stores, hotels, restaurants, and attractions continue operating, although some may have adjusted schedules.
The key to enjoying Korea during Chuseok is knowing what usually closes, what stays open, and how to plan your itinerary with a little flexibility. This guide will help you understand what to expect and plan your Korea trip confidently during Chuseok 2026.
When Is Chuseok 2026 in Korea?
Chuseok 2026 will be celebrated from September 24–26, 2026 (Thursday–Saturday). During this period, many Koreans travel to visit family, so transportation, accommodations, and popular destinations can become busier than usual. Some businesses may also adjust their opening hours or take a short holiday break.
Since Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest travel periods, flight prices and availability can change quickly. Booking your flight early can help you find better schedules and prices.
✈️ Compare flights to South Korea here:
Planning your first Korea trip? Before visiting during Chuseok, check my First Time in South Korea? Complete Beginner Travel Guide (2026) for essential tips on transportation, money, apps, food, and travel preparation.
Quick Answer: Is Korea Closed During Chuseok?
No. Korea does not completely close during Chuseok.
Some small family-run businesses, restaurants, and local shops may close for several days because owners return home to celebrate with their families.
However, many places that tourists usually need remain available:
✅ Convenience stores
✅ Cafes (especially chain cafes)
✅ Shopping malls
✅ Tourist attractions
✅ Palaces
✅ Theme parks
✅ Major restaurants
✅ Hotels
✅ Airports
✅ Subway and public transportation
The biggest difference is that opening hours may change, and some businesses may operate on shorter schedules during the holiday period.
What Is Open and Closed During Chuseok in Korea?
Before planning your itinerary, here is a quick overview of what tourists can expect during Chuseok. While Korea does not completely shut down during the holiday, some businesses may have different operating hours or temporary closures.
Place | Chuseok Availability | Tips for Travelers |
Convenience stores | ✅ Usually open | Available almost everywhere, including tourist areas |
Starbucks & major cafe chains | ✅ Usually open | Some branches may have adjusted hours |
Local restaurants | ⚠️ Depends | Check Naver Map or recent reviews before visiting |
Shopping malls | ⚠️ Depends | Some may close for 1–2 days during the holiday |
Department stores | ⚠️ May close on certain days | Check official holiday schedules |
Traditional markets | ⚠️ Depends on vendors | Some sellers take a holiday break |
Palaces | ✅ Usually open | A great time for sightseeing and cultural experiences |
Theme parks | ✅ Usually open | Expect larger crowds during the holiday period |
Museums | ⚠️ Depends | Check official websites before visiting |
Pharmacies | ⚠️ Limited hours | Look for pharmacies operating during holidays |
While many tourist attractions and essential services remain available, some places do close during Chuseok. Understanding what usually takes a holiday break can help you avoid surprises and plan a smoother Korea trip.
Besides knowing what to expect during the holiday, it is also important to prepare for transportation, crowds, and itinerary changes. For more practical planning tips before your trip, check my guide:
What Usually Closes During Chuseok?
Small Family-Owned Restaurants
One of the biggest surprises for tourists visiting Korea during Chuseok is that some restaurants may suddenly close during the holiday.
Many Korean restaurants are family-owned businesses. During Chuseok, owners often return to their hometowns or spend time with relatives, so some restaurants may close for several days.
This is especially common with:
Small Korean BBQ restaurants
Local neighborhood restaurants
Traditional Korean restaurants
Family-owned cafes
Small local shops
For example, if you find a highly rated restaurant near your hotel in Seoul, do not assume it will be open during Chuseok.
My advice:
✅ Check the latest opening hours on Naver Map
✅ Read recent visitor reviews
✅ Always have a backup restaurant nearby
This is also why choosing the right area to stay during Chuseok is important. Staying in a busy tourist area gives you more food options even if some smaller businesses close.
For first-time visitors to Seoul, areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam are convenient choices because they have plenty of restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, shopping, and attractions nearby.
You can also check my guide on Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide) to choose the best location for your trip.
Small Local Shops May Close
During Chuseok, many independent businesses take a short holiday break to spend time with their families.
You may notice:
Small clothing stores closed
Beauty shops with limited hours
Independent cafes unavailable
Neighborhood stores taking a holiday break
However, this does not mean shopping is impossible during Chuseok. Major tourist areas and large shopping centers usually still have options available, although some individual stores may operate on shorter schedules.
For travelers who want easier access to shopping, food, and essentials, popular areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam are usually more convenient because many businesses continue operating during the holiday.
What Usually Stays Open During Chuseok?
The good news is that travelers can still enjoy Korea during Chuseok. Popular tourist areas like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju usually have enough restaurants, cafes, shops, and attractions open throughout the holiday period.
Travelers can still find places to eat, shop, and explore during Chuseok — the key is knowing where to go and checking opening hours before visiting.
1. Convenience Stores (Almost Always Open)
Convenience stores are one of the most reliable places for travelers during Chuseok.
Major chains like:
CU
GS25
7-Eleven
emart24
usually continue operating during the holiday, including many locations in tourist areas.
You can buy:
Drinks
Snacks
Instant noodles
Ready-to-eat meals
Breakfast items
Coffee
SIM cards
Transportation card top-ups
For tourists, convenience stores can be a lifesaver if nearby restaurants are closed or if you need a quick meal after a long day of sightseeing.
Many travelers staying in hotels, guesthouses, or other accommodations rely on convenience stores for simple breakfasts, snacks, or late-night meals during Chuseok.
2. Cafes Usually Continue Operating
Korea is famous for its cafe culture, and many cafes remain open during Chuseok, especially large chain cafes.
The safest options are usually:
Starbucks
Compose Coffee
Mega Coffee
Paik’s Coffee
A Twosome Place
However, smaller independent cafes may close for several days because many owners spend the holiday with their families.
If you plan to visit popular cafe neighborhoods such as:
Ikseon-dong
Seongsu
Hongdae
Hannam-dong
it is a good idea to check the latest opening hours before visiting.
3. Hotels Continue Operating Normally
Hotels do not close during Chuseok.
In fact, choosing the right area to stay becomes even more important during the holiday because transportation between cities can become busier as many Koreans travel during this period.
Since Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest travel periods, booking your accommodation early is recommended, especially in popular areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam. You can compare hotels in Seoul here:
For first-time visitors to Seoul, I recommend staying near a subway station and choosing a neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores nearby.
Popular areas include:
Myeongdong
Hongdae
City Hall / Jung-gu
Gangnam
You can read more about choosing the best location here: Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)
4. Restaurants in Tourist Areas Usually Stay Open
While some local restaurants close during Chuseok, restaurants in popular tourist areas are more likely to continue operating. This is because areas that depend heavily on visitors usually maintain more dining options during national holidays.
For travelers, these neighborhoods are usually easier for finding food:
📍 Myeongdong
Myeongdong is one of the easiest areas for first-time travelers during Chuseok.
Because it is one of Seoul’s busiest tourist districts, many restaurants, cafes, cosmetic stores, and street food stalls continue operating.
You can usually find:
Korean fried chicken
Korean BBQ
Street food
Cafes
Dessert shops
Olive Young
It is also a convenient area to stay because you can easily find food even if some smaller restaurants close.
📍 Hongdae
Hongdae is another great choice during Chuseok because the neighborhood remains lively with locals, students, and international visitors.
You can enjoy:
Restaurants
Cafes
Shopping
Street performances
AK Plaza Hongdae
Hongdae busking street
📍 Gangnam
Gangnam is another reliable area because many large businesses and shopping complexes continue operating.
Popular places include:
COEX Mall
Starfield Library
Restaurants
Cafes
Shopping areas
📍 Haeundae, Busan
If you are visiting Busan during Chuseok, Haeundae is one of the easiest areas for tourists.
Because it is a major beach destination, many restaurants, cafes, and attractions continue serving visitors during the holiday.
If you are planning a Busan stay, check:
Best Areas to Stay in Busan for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)
Before Your Chuseok Trip: Prepare These Essentials
Because some businesses may change their opening hours during Chuseok, a little preparation can make your holiday trip much smoother.
Having the right apps, internet connection, and travel essentials will help you check updates quickly, find alternatives, and avoid unnecessary stress during your Korea trip.
Download Korea Travel Apps Before Arrival
Before arriving in Korea, I recommend installing a few essential travel apps.
The most useful ones include:
Naver Map
KakaoMap
Papago
Kakao T
These apps can help you:
✅ Check restaurant opening hours
✅ Find alternative places to eat
✅ Navigate public transportation
✅ Translate Korean signs and notices
✅ Book taxis more easily
During Chuseok, schedules can change, so having reliable apps is especially helpful when you need updated information quickly.
You can see my complete list here:
✈️📱 15 Essential Apps to Download Before Your Korea Trip (2026 Tourist Guide)
Prepare Your Internet Connection
Having mobile data is extremely useful during Chuseok because you may need to:
✅ Check updated opening hours
✅ Find nearby restaurants that are open
✅ Navigate public transportation
✅ Translate Korean notices
✅ Search for alternative attractions
For first-time visitors, staying connected makes traveling around Korea much easier, especially during a busy holiday period.
Before your trip, compare your options here:
📱 Best SIM Card, eSIM or Pocket WiFi for Korea? (2026 Tourist Guide)
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Before Your Korea Trip
Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest travel periods, and unexpected situations such as flight delays, lost luggage, medical emergencies, or trip changes can happen.
Travel insurance can help protect your trip from unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, flight delays, lost luggage, or cancellations.
Tips for Eating During Chuseok
Finding food during Chuseok is usually not difficult, but having a flexible plan will make your trip much easier. Since some restaurants may close or change their schedules, these simple tips can help you avoid surprises.
1. Check Opening Hours Before Going
Do not rely only on Google Maps when traveling in Korea.
For local businesses, Naver Map often has more updated information, including recent reviews, business hours, and temporary holiday closures.
Before heading to a restaurant, check:
✅ Updated opening hours
✅ Recent visitor reviews
✅ Any holiday notices
This is especially helpful during Chuseok when some restaurants may close for several days.
2. Eat Earlier Than Usual
During Chuseok, restaurants that remain open can become busier than normal, especially in popular tourist areas.
To avoid long waits, try visiting during less crowded times:
Lunch: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Dinner: 5:00 PM–6:30 PM
Popular restaurants in areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Haeundae may fill up quickly during the holiday.
3. Keep Convenience Stores as a Backup Option
If your planned restaurant is closed, convenience stores can save your day.
Korean convenience stores offer many quick and affordable meal options, including:
Kimbap
Sandwiches
Rice bowls
Instant noodles
Coffee
Snacks
They are especially useful for breakfast, late-night meals, or a quick snack between sightseeing stops during Chuseok.
Are Department Stores and Shopping Malls Open During Chuseok?
Shopping is still possible during Chuseok, but opening hours can vary depending on the type of store.
Department stores often close for 1–2 days during the holiday period, while large shopping malls are more likely to remain open because they include restaurants, cafes, entertainment, and attractions.
Major department stores include:
Lotte Department Store
Shinsegae Department Store
Hyundai Department Store
Before visiting, check the official holiday schedule because closure dates can change every year. For tourists, large shopping complexes such as COEX Mall, The Hyundai Seoul, and Lotte World Mall are usually safer options because you can combine shopping, dining, and indoor activities in one location.
Shopping Location | Chuseok Availability | Tips for Travelers |
Convenience stores | ✅ Very reliable | Best for snacks and daily essentials |
Department stores | ⚠️ May close certain days | Check holiday schedule |
Large shopping malls | ✅ Usually open | Good backup for shopping + dining |
Cosmetic stores | ⚠️ Depends on branch | Tourist areas usually have more options |
Are Traditional Markets Open During Chuseok?
Traditional markets can be a little unpredictable during Chuseok. Some vendors close because they return to their hometowns or spend time preparing for family celebrations. However, visiting a traditional market before or after the main Chuseok holiday period can be a great way to experience Korean culture and local food.
Popular traditional markets include:
Gwangjang Market
Namdaemun Market
Mangwon Market
Jagalchi Market in Busan
During Chuseok, you may see seasonal holiday foods such as:
Songpyeon (traditional rice cakes)
Jeon (Korean-style pancakes)
Fresh fruits
Korean sweets
If you want a more local experience during your Korea trip, traditional markets are worth visiting. However, always check the latest opening information before going.
Are Palaces and Tourist Attractions Open During Chuseok?
The good news is that many of Korea’s famous tourist attractions remain open during Chuseok.
In fact, the holiday can be a beautiful time to explore traditional places because some attractions host special cultural programs and events for visitors.
Seoul Palaces During Chuseok
Popular palaces include:
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace
Deoksugung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace
During Chuseok, visitors can enjoy:
Traditional performances
Korean cultural activities
Historical experiences
Hanbok experiences
One of the most popular Chuseok activities for tourists is renting a hanbok and visiting a palace.If you want to experience Korean culture during Chuseok, you can also book popular activities in advance, such as hanbok rental, palace experiences, and Seoul sightseeing tours.
👘 Popular Korea experiences:
Hanbok rental near Gyeongbokgung Palace
Many visitors enjoy this experience because wearing traditional Korean clothing creates memorable photos, and hanbok wearers may receive free entry benefits at some historical sites.
Best Places to Visit During Chuseok in Seoul
If you are visiting Seoul during Chuseok, it can actually be a special time to experience Korean culture. While some local businesses may close for the holiday, many traditional attractions and cultural areas remain open and often host special Chuseok events.
From traditional performances to hands-on activities, these places are great options for travelers who want to experience Korea’s holiday atmosphere.
📍 Namsangol Hanok Village — Best for Traditional Chuseok Experiences
Namsangol Hanok Village is one of the best places to experience Korean culture during Chuseok. During the holiday period, the village often hosts special Chuseok programs where visitors can enjoy traditional performances, cultural activities, and hands-on experiences.
You may find activities such as:
✅ Traditional games
✅ Korean craft experiences
✅ Cultural performances
✅ Chuseok-related activities
✅ Traditional Korean experiences for visitors
Some programs are free, while certain hands-on activities may require a small participation fee. Since event schedules can change every year, check the official announcement before visiting.
Best for:
First-time visitors
Families
Travelers interested in Korean culture
Traditional photo opportunities
📍 Unhyeongung Royal Residence — Best for Traditional Korean Holiday Events
Unhyeongung Royal Residence is another great place to visit during Chuseok. This historic royal residence often hosts traditional holiday programs where visitors can experience Korean customs in a beautiful historical setting.
During Chuseok events, visitors may enjoy:
✅ Traditional performances
✅ Cultural demonstrations
✅ Traditional games
✅ Korean craft activities
✅ Seasonal experiences
Some activities are free, while others may require a small fee depending on the program.
Best for:
Travelers looking for authentic cultural experiences
Visitors who want a quieter alternative to busy tourist spots
Those interested in Korean history and traditions
📍 Gyeongbokgung Palace — Best for Hanbok Photos and Korean History
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most popular attractions and remains a great place to visit during Chuseok.
Visitors can enjoy:
✅ Traditional Korean architecture
✅ Hanbok photos
✅ Palace grounds and gardens
✅ Cultural experiences
Wearing hanbok while visiting the palace is especially popular among tourists because it creates memorable photos and may provide free admission benefits at some historical sites.
📍 Insadong — Best for Traditional Culture and Shopping
Insadong is a great area to explore during Chuseok if you want to experience a more traditional side of Seoul.
You can find:
✅ Traditional tea houses
✅ Korean souvenirs
✅ Art galleries
✅ Traditional shops
✅ Korean crafts
Because Insadong focuses more on culture and tourism, many places remain available during the holiday, although individual shops may have different opening hours.
📍 Namsan Seoul Tower — Best for Seoul City Views
If you want a relaxing sightseeing option during Chuseok, N Seoul Tower is a great choice.
You can enjoy:
✅ Seoul skyline views
✅ Scenic walks around Namsan Park
✅ Evening sightseeing
✅ A romantic city atmosphere
📍 Han River Parks — Best for a Local Seoul Experience
During Chuseok, many locals spend time outdoors with family and friends. Visiting a Han River park is a simple way to experience everyday Korean life during the holiday.
You can:
✅ Enjoy a picnic
✅ Take a relaxing walk
✅ Watch the sunset
✅ See Seoul’s skyline
It is also a good option if you prefer a more relaxed itinerary during the holiday period.
Tourist Attractions Usually Open During Chuseok
Many popular attractions continue welcoming visitors during the holiday.
Common options include:
✅ N Seoul Tower
✅ Seoul Sky Observatory
✅ Museums (check holiday schedules)
✅ Han River parks
✅ Observation decks
✅ Cultural villages
If this is your first time in Seoul, Chuseok can actually be a nice opportunity to explore because some areas are less crowded than usual.
For planning your first days after arrival:
🇰🇷 Your First 24 Hours in Seoul (2026 Step-by-Step Survival Guide for First-Time Travelers)
Are Theme Parks Open During Chuseok?
Yes, major theme parks usually operate during Chuseok.
However, because it is a national holiday, expect larger crowds than normal.
Popular choices include:
🎢 Lotte World Seoul
A convenient option because it is located inside Seoul.
It is a good choice for:
Families
Couples
Rainy days
Visitors who want entertainment without traveling far
🎡 Everland
Everland is also usually open during Chuseok.
However, expect:
Larger crowds
Longer waiting times
Busier transportation
If visiting theme parks during Chuseok:
✅ Buy tickets in advance
✅ Arrive early
✅ Check operating hours
✅ Avoid the busiest afternoon period
Since Chuseok can be busy, booking attraction tickets online before your visit can help you save time and avoid long queues. 🎟️ Book Seoul attraction tickets here:
Chuseok Opening Guide for Tourists: Quick Comparison
Not sure what will be available during Chuseok? This quick comparison shows what travelers can generally expect during the holiday.
Place | What Travelers Should Expect During Chuseok |
Convenience stores | ✅ Almost always open; many locations operate 24 hours |
Hotels | ✅ Operating normally throughout the holiday |
Tourist attractions | ✅ Usually open, but check holiday schedules before visiting |
Restaurants | ⚠️ Many remain open in popular tourist areas, but small local restaurants may close |
Department stores | ⚠️ May close for 1–2 days during the holiday period |
Small businesses | ⚠️ More likely to close as owners take a family holiday break |
For first-time visitors, the easiest strategy during Chuseok is to stay in a convenient area with plenty of restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, and transportation options nearby.
Practical Tips When Traveling Korea During Chuseok
Traveling in Korea during Chuseok can be a wonderful experience, but a little extra planning will make your trip much smoother. Because many Koreans travel during this holiday, transportation, accommodation, and popular destinations can become busier than usual. Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy your trip without stress.
1. Book Your Hotel Early
Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest travel periods. Flights to Korea can become more expensive as the holiday approaches, so booking your flight early gives you more choices for arrival times and better prices.
✈️ Search flights to Korea here:
Many Koreans travel domestically to visit family or take short vacations, which means popular destinations can become more crowded and accommodation prices may increase.
To get better choices and convenient locations, it is best to reserve your hotel before the holiday period gets busy.
🏨 Compare hotels in Seoul here:
For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in convenient areas with easy access to restaurants, convenience stores, and public transportation.
📍 Seoul
Good areas to stay include:
Myeongdong
Best for:
First-time visitors
Shopping
Street food
Easy access to major attractions
Hongdae
Best for:
Cafes
Restaurants
Nightlife
Younger atmosphere
City Hall / Jung-gu
Best for:
Central sightseeing
Walking to palaces and historical areas
📍 Jeju
Chuseok is also a popular time for domestic travelers visiting Jeju Island.
If Jeju is part of your Korea itinerary, check:
🌊☀️ Best Areas to Stay in Jeju for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)
Because many Koreans adn Tourist also travel to Jeju during Chuseok, flights from Seoul to Jeju can become busy, especially during peak holiday dates. Booking your domestic flight in advance is recommended to secure better schedules and availability.
✈️ Compare Seoul to Jeju flights here:
2. Prepare Transportation in Advance
If you plan to travel between cities during Chuseok, transportation requires extra planning.
Popular routes such as:
Seoul → Busan
Seoul → Jeonju
Seoul → Gangneung
can become very busy because many locals travel during the holiday.
For long-distance travel:
✅ Book KTX tickets as early as possible
✅ Avoid traveling during peak hours if possible
✅ Have alternative plans in case tickets sell out
For airport arrival and transportation to Seoul:
How to Get from Incheon Airport to Seoul: Complete Airport Transfer Guide
If you arrive during Chuseok, booking your airport transfer in advance can make your arrival smoother, especially if you are carrying luggage.
Popular options include:
🚆 AREX Airport Express
Public Transportation During Chuseok
Seoul’s public transportation usually continues operating during Chuseok, so travelers can still explore the city during the holiday. However, transportation between cities can become much busier because many Koreans travel home to visit family.
Expect:
✅ Seoul subway — Operating normally
✅ City buses — Operating, but schedules may vary
✅ Airport transportation — Available, including AREX and airport buses
⚠️ KTX trains — Book early because popular routes sell out quickly
⚠️ Intercity buses — Expect heavier traffic and longer travel times
If you are traveling from Seoul to Busan, Jeonju, Gangneung, or other cities during Chuseok, booking transportation in advance is highly recommended.
3. Carry Enough Cash and Prepare Payment Options
Korea is a very card-friendly country, and most tourist areas accept international cards.
However, carrying some Korean won is still helpful during Chuseok because:
Some small restaurants may prefer cash
Traditional markets may be easier with cash
Small local shops may not accept foreign cards
Before your trip, learn more about payment options:
💳 Cash vs Card in Korea: What Most Travelers Actually Use (2026 Guide)
and
💸 Best Place to Exchange Money in Korea: Airport vs Myeongdong vs ATM (2026 Guide)
4. Plan Flexible Itineraries
During Chuseok, avoid creating a schedule that depends on one specific restaurant, shop, or attraction.
Instead:
✅ Choose areas with many options nearby
✅ Have backup restaurants saved
✅ Check opening hours on the day of your visit
✅ Leave extra travel time for busy routes
Popular tourist areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Haeundae are easier during Chuseok because many businesses continue operating.
Chuseok FAQ for Tourists
1. Is Seoul closed during Chuseok?
No. Seoul remains open, especially popular tourist areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam.
2. Are restaurants closed during Chuseok?
Some small family-owned restaurants close, but many restaurants in tourist areas remain open.
3. Is Myeongdong open during Chuseok?
Yes. Myeongdong usually stays active with restaurants, shopping, cafes, and street food.
4. Are convenience stores open during Chuseok?
Yes. Convenience stores like CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven are usually open during the holiday.
5. Is Starbucks open during Chuseok?
Many Starbucks locations remain open, but some branches may have shorter hours.
6. Are palaces open during Chuseok?
Yes. Major palaces like Gyeongbokgung Palace are usually open and may offer cultural programs.
7. Are shopping malls open during Chuseok?
Many large shopping malls remain open, but department stores may close for certain days.
8. Can I travel to Busan or Jeju during Chuseok?
Yes, but expect more crowds and book transportation and hotels early.
9. Should I avoid visiting Korea during Chuseok?
No. Chuseok can be a great time to experience Korean culture, food, and traditional activities. If you are visiting Korea for the first time during this period, my Chuseok Korea 2026: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go 🍂 guide can help you prepare for transportation, crowds, and itinerary planning.
10. Do I need to change my Korea itinerary during Chuseok?
Only slightly. Keep your plans flexible, check opening hours, and prepare backup options.
11.Is Chuseok a good time to visit Korea for tourists?
Yes. Chuseok can be a great time to visit Korea if you plan ahead. While some businesses close temporarily, many tourist attractions, cafes, hotels, and restaurants in popular areas remain open.
Final Thoughts: Is Visiting Korea During Chuseok Worth It?
Yes, visiting Korea during Chuseok can still be a great experience.
While some small businesses may close and schedules can change, Korea does not completely shut down. With a little preparation, you can still enjoy amazing food, shopping, cafes, palaces, and cultural experiences during the holiday.
My biggest advice is simple: stay flexible, check opening hours, and always have a backup plan.
Chuseok is not only a time when some places close — it is also a chance to experience a more traditional side of Korea.
Before your trip, you may also want to read:
🇰🇷 What is Chuseok in Korea? A Beginner’s Guide for Tourists (2026)
🇰🇷 Chuseok Korea 2026: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go 🍂
🇰🇷 Korea Travel Checklist: Everything You Need Before Your Trip (2026 Guide)
With the right planning, your Chuseok trip can become one of your most memorable Korea experiences. 🇰🇷✨
👤 About the Author
Hi, I’m Richelle, the creator of Just KTravel, based in South Korea.
I share simple and practical Korea travel guides from my own experience — including seasonal spots, transport tips, hidden places, and easy itineraries.
I started this blog after visiting Korea as a traveler myself, and now I write to help others plan their trips with less stress and more confidence.
My goal is to make Korea travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone, especially first-time visitors.
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