November Packing List for Seoul — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavyweight coat or winter jacketEssential

  Seoul's November lows of 37°F combined with increasing wind near the Han River require a coat rated for winter conditions — the transition from autumn to winter in Seoul is rapid and unforgiving from mid-month.

• Warm mid-layer sweater or fleeceEssential

  Layering a heavyweight knit sweater or fleece under your outer coat is essential for November's wide temperature range in Seoul — 52°F afternoon highs give way to near-freezing evenings at Bukchon Hanok Village.

• Thermal base layer (second half of month)Essential

  By late November, Seoul's dropping temperatures near Bukhansan and the Han River parks approach winter levels — a thermal base layer prevents the cold from penetrating layered clothing effectively.

• Waterproof insulated ankle bootsEssential

  November's cold rain and possible late-month snow near Bukhansan trailheads and Seoul's stone palace paths require waterproof boots with insulation — leather dress shoes become impractical in November's conditions.

• Wool or thermal socksEssential

  Seoul's 37°F November lows require wool or insulating socks inside boots for outdoor visits to Gyeongbokgung Palace's exposed courtyards and Han River park walks after dark.

• Thick wool or merino socksEssential

  Seoul's 37°F November lows require insulating socks inside waterproof boots for extended outdoor visits at Gyeongbokgung Palace and evening walks near the Han River.

• Warm scarfEssential

  Seoul's November wind near the Han River bridges and open palace grounds intensifies as winter approaches — a wool or fleece scarf protects the neck and lower face on cold days.

• Light glovesEssential

  November evenings in Seoul drop to 37°F with wind chill on the Han River waterfront and outside Namdaemun Market — a pair of light gloves in a coat pocket adds comfort without bulk.

Clothing

• Heavyweight coat or winter jacketEssential

  Seoul's November lows of 37°F combined with increasing wind near the Han River require a coat rated for winter conditions — the transition from autumn to winter in Seoul is rapid and unforgiving from mid-month.

• Warm mid-layer sweater or fleeceEssential

  Layering a heavyweight knit sweater or fleece under your outer coat is essential for November's wide temperature range in Seoul — 52°F afternoon highs give way to near-freezing evenings at Bukchon Hanok Village.

• Thermal base layer (second half of month)Essential

  By late November, Seoul's dropping temperatures near Bukhansan and the Han River parks approach winter levels — a thermal base layer prevents the cold from penetrating layered clothing effectively.

• Wool trousers or lined jeansRecommended

  Seoul's 37°F November lows make standard lightweight trousers insufficient for evening outdoor activities — wool-blend or fleece-lined trousers or thermal-lined jeans add meaningful warmth.

Footwear

• Waterproof insulated ankle bootsEssential

  November's cold rain and possible late-month snow near Bukhansan trailheads and Seoul's stone palace paths require waterproof boots with insulation — leather dress shoes become impractical in November's conditions.

• Wool or thermal socksEssential

  Seoul's 37°F November lows require wool or insulating socks inside boots for outdoor visits to Gyeongbokgung Palace's exposed courtyards and Han River park walks after dark.

• Thick wool or merino socksEssential

  Seoul's 37°F November lows require insulating socks inside waterproof boots for extended outdoor visits at Gyeongbokgung Palace and evening walks near the Han River.

Accessories

• Warm scarfEssential

  Seoul's November wind near the Han River bridges and open palace grounds intensifies as winter approaches — a wool or fleece scarf protects the neck and lower face on cold days.

• Light glovesEssential

  November evenings in Seoul drop to 37°F with wind chill on the Han River waterfront and outside Namdaemun Market — a pair of light gloves in a coat pocket adds comfort without bulk.

• Knit hatRecommended

  Late November temperatures near Bukhansan and along the Han River warrant a knit hat for morning and evening outings — the wind chill begins approaching January levels by month's end.

• Compact umbrellaRecommended

  Six November rain days in Seoul bring cold autumn rain that's uncomfortable without a compact umbrella — the rain occasionally falls as sleet near Bukhansan's upper elevations.