Written and Photographed by Yun Su-mi, 6th Batch of GoBoogi Creators

Wondering where to go for a fall outing in Busan? Fall isn’t quite here yet, but I’d like to introduce you to a park that turns a beautiful shade of red when the season arrives: Hwamyeong Ecological Park. Today, we’ll see what the park looks like while it’s still green and get a preview of the colorful scenery to come.

- Hwamyeong Ecological Park in September 2026

When I visited Hwamyeong Ecological Park in September 2026, the kochia was still mostly green. If you’re hoping to see rows of pinkish-red kochia stretching into the distance, you may want to wait a little longer. Once the weather cools down and the kochia begins to turn red, the park will look very different.

For now, the round, green kochia plants give the park a charming look and a distinctive atmosphere. Against the willow trees, metasequoias, and blue sky, they made for a scene that reminded me of a Windows desktop wallpaper.

There are narrow paths between the rows of kochia. Walk carefully along them, and you can take photos among the plants.

- When Will the Kochia Turn Red?

These photos were taken in early November last year, when the kochia was at its most colorful. This year, the kochia is expected to start changing color in early October, with the display likely to remain beautiful through early November.

- What Else Is There to Enjoy at Hwamyeong Ecological Park Besides the Kochia?

After seeing the kochia at Hwamyeong Ecological Park, follow the metasequoia-lined path about 150 meters toward the boat mooring area, and you’ll come across a field of silver grass.

The silver grass ranges from waist-high to taller than a person. With the grass all around you and only the pale sky above, it’s a lovely place to take portraits. It’s a scene you won’t find at Busan’s other ecological parks, so I recommend seeing it while you’re here.

From the kochia field, head up toward the willow trees, and you’ll find the aquatic plant garden’s boardwalk and a grassy lawn just a short walk away. You can stroll along the boardwalk beside the wetlands or spread out a picnic blanket in an open area and relax with your family or your dog.

Now that the weather has cooled down, it’s a great time to take a longer walk. If you’re planning a fall outing, pack a lunch and head to Hwamyeong Ecological Park in Busan to stroll among the kochia and silver grass before settling down for a picnic.

Q&A

Q. When is the best time to visit Hwamyeong Ecological Park in Busan to see the kochia?

A. It may vary depending on the weather, but last year, the kochia began turning red in early October. If you’d like to enjoy the park when the fall colors are on full display, I recommend visiting from mid-October and early November. Hwamyeong Ecological Park is also known for its beautiful sunsets. Try to arrive before sunset so you can enjoy the park’s fall scenery and red kochia, then stay to watch the sun go down.