A Korean friend says excitedly, "They say this weekend is the peak for the autumn leaves!" What if you answer at that point, "We could go next week, couldn't we?" Even if you mean no harm, your friend might feel a little hurt. ## Why are they in such a hurry? Korea has a lot of mountains, so in autumn the mountains change color everywhere. But the time when the autumn leaves are at their prettiest is very short. Once a storm with wind and rain passes through, the leaves can fall all at once. That's why the news and forestry and tourism agencies announce in advance, "This year's autumn leaves will peak around this time." The way the color spreads down from the mountaintop like water seeping downward is sometimes called the "autumn foliage front." The dates are different every year. So for Koreans, the "peak weekend" feels like a once-a-year appointment. ## Here's what you can say When you get an invitation, first say, "Sounds great! Which spot is the prettiest?" and show how happy you are. If you can't go, say, "This time is hard for me. Instead, try saying, "Show me a photo!" That way, your friend can go on the trip feeling good too. ## Things to Watch Out for in the Mountains National parks have trails you must not enter. Be sure to look at the signs. Even if you want to pick up a pretty leaf, it's best not to take leaves or fruits from inside the park. Capture it in photos and bring it back. On peak weekends the roads get very congested, so it's best to leave early or take public transportation. Check this year's timing on the websites of the Korea Forest Service, the Korea National Park Service, and the Korea Tourism Organization.