"Late October to Early November Peak" Korea Forest Service Autumn Foliage Forecast Map Released

"This year, autumn foliage is predicted to reach its peak between late October and early November."

On the 25th, the Korea Forest Service announced the '2023 Autumn Foliage (Peak) Prediction Map.' The peak foliage period may vary slightly depending on the region and tree species. However, according to the Korea Forest Service's prediction, most areas are expected to experience peak foliage between late next month and early November.

The average peak foliage dates by tree species are predicted as October 26 for Korean maple (Dangdanpungnamu), October 26 for Mongolian oak (Singalnamu), and October 28 for ginkgo (Eunhaengnamu).

Among these, the Korean maple is expected to reach peak foliage about two days later than last year.

By region, Seoraksan in Gangwon Province is predicted to reach peak foliage starting October 23, Naejangsan on October 29, Jirisan on October 31, and Hallasan around November 1.

Analysis of plant phenology observation data since 2009 shows that the timing of peak foliage for Korean maple has been delayed by approximately 0.33 days each year. The Korea Forest Service attributes this mainly to higher average temperatures from July to September.

However, the Korea Forest Service added that this trend varies by region due to abnormal climate conditions such as heatwaves or cold spells.

The autumn foliage prediction map was created using machine learning and process-based models based on plant phenology field observation data jointly collected by the National Arboretum and 10 regional public arboretums, as well as meteorological information observed in mountainous areas by the National Institute of Forest Science.

Nam Sung-hyun, Administrator of the Korea Forest Service, said, "The foliage prediction map will be a useful resource for autumn visitors and citizens interested in local festivals," adding, "The Korea Forest Service will continue to observe and analyze plant phenology to provide more useful and accurate services to the public."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.