Spring comes earlier, autumn foliage later as climate change alters forests

As climate change reshapes Korea's forests, the arrival of spring seems to be happening earlier, while autumn foliage is arriving later than ever before. Forecasts for this year indicate a later peak autumn foliage season, with colors slowly spreading from the central to southern regions. Mount Seorak will witness the first signs of fall color change on October 20, followed by Mount Songni on October 28, Mount Naejang on November 4, and Mount Halla on November 6.

The national average peak date for maples and oaks is expected to be on October 31, about 0.8 days later than the average peak date observed over the past five years.

This delayed autumn season is just one example of how climate change is altering the natural rhythms of Korea's forests. As temperatures continue to rise, spring has started arriving increasingly early, while autumn has been shifting later. Researchers have consistently observed this pattern in the country's forests, suggesting that the familiar seasonal clock is being disrupted.

A 2021 study conducted by scientists from the Korea National Arboretum and Seoul National University's Graduate School of Environmental Studies tracked 25 forest species to highlight these changes in the country's ecosystems.