Korea in spring definitely has a catchy tune… Cherry Blossom Ending 벚꽃 엔딩 by Busker Busker. Similarly, I also can’t help but listen to Flower Road 꽃길 by Big Bang. If you’re looking to travel during the most romantic time of year, then this spring in Korea travel guide will help you plan an epic trip.
Spring in Korea means Buddha’s birthday, festivals, the Starbucks cherry blossom collection, cherry blossom foods, and even the dreaded yellow dust. Despite this the temperatures are wonderful and you can dress in all sorts of pastel colors. It’s one of my favorite seasons behind autumn and summer.
So why should you listen to me as compared to all the other bloggers? Well, I lived in Korea almost six years. I can speak the language and navigate around like a local. This post is dedicated to where to go during spring in Korea, what to do in Korean spring, and what to eat.
Blog Posts You Might Like
- The Best Korean Spring Festivals
- What To Wear and What To Pack To Korea in Spring
- Where To Stay in Seoul & Best Seoul Neighborhoods
Spring in Seoul & Korea Ebook
Coming soon!
Get Travel Insurance
A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency. I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here. With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:
- Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
- Emergency Medical – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
- Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
- Trip Interuption – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
- Trip Delay – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.
If this plan isn’t for you then you can check out the different travel insurance plans World Nomads offers here.
How To Get Around
The best way to get around Korea is by purchasing a T-Money card at any convenience store and loading it with money. You can also purchase the mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon to use with your purchase.
I also recommend getting the Discover Seoul Pass so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72 hours.
How To Stay Connected
Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that, you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What month is cherry blossom season in Korea?
Every year is different and the effects of global warming have caused cherry blossom season in Korea to be super early. These days, cherry blossom season starts mid March or beginning of April.
2. Is it cold in spring in Korea?
March in Korea is very chilly because of the cold winds blowing through. It starts to warm up at the end of March. In April and May, the temperature drops considerably at night making it very chilly as well. Bring a light jacket.
3. Is April a good time to visit Korea?
South Korea in April is the best time to visit. The weather is perfect (albeit a bit chilly at night) and it isn’t overly humid. You can enjoy warm days on the many rooftops of Seoul.
4. What is yellow dust in South Korea?
This is a yellow colored dust originating from the dry deserts of China and Mongolia. It also comes from the Yellowstone zone of the Yellow River. Strong winds whisk these fine dust particles into the air. Because the air pressure is a lot lower in the spring, it is carried to South Korea and Japan. I highly recommend wearing a mask to filter out the crap in the air.
5. Why is there fine dust in Korea?
South Korea spring bring a lot of fine dust. This is China’s pollution mixed in with Korea’s pollution. The pollutants stay in the air and cause fine dust. It has detrimental health risks including coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, irritation of the eyes/nose/throat, and can trigger asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.
6. When is spring in Korea?
Korean spring takes place during the months of March, April, and May. The weather in South Korea in April make it a perfect time to visit since the days are mild.
7. How do you say spring in Korean?
You can say 봄 bom!
What To Pack For Spring In Korea
I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis. I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.
Travel essentials for what to pack to Korea in spring:
- Korea travel adapter – Korea uses 220V plugs. You’re going to need a travel adapter to charge your electronics. If you forget, you can easily find some at Daiso for 5,000 won.
- Unlocked phone – You can book a sim card here. Alternatively, if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can also use this portable wifi router.
- Toothpaste – Korean toothpaste sucks PERIODT. Bring your own from home.
- Important documents – Bring any important medical documents in case something happens.
- Passport – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it. Make a copy of your passport and hide it in your suitcase and leave one on your fridge at home.
- Credit/Debit Cards – There are ATMs all over Korea and most places accept credit cards.
- Medication – Don’t forget your important medicine because I guarantee it will be a nightmare for you to navigate the hospital and then go to a pharmacy to try and get it.
What To Wear For Spring In Korea
If you’re looking for a spring in Korea outfit, then look no further. I have written an entire blog post about Korea spring fashion. This is a detailed guide on what to wear in Korea in April until May. Here’s a mini list of what to pack for spring in Korea. These are my spring Korean fashion essentials.
- A Spring Jacket – This is one of my most common spring essentials in Korea. I really love fleece style jackets with a lot of pockets. This is my go to during spring in Korea.
- Long sleeved shirts – This is a basic essential. It can be a lighter one so you can layer it.
- A scarf – Wear a more light silk scarf. It can double as a headband or hair tie during the day and a neck warmer at night.
- Reebok Sneakers – I never wear sandals during spring in Korea because it’s too cold… I wear cute sneakers up until the end of May.
- A Face Mask– Yellow dust and pollution in Korea is no joke. If you have allergies or are especially sensitive, I highly suggest a face mask that will filter out the 2.5mg dust particles.
Spring Weather in Korea
Spring weather in Korea varies month by month. March in Seoul starts out pretty cool and then warms up toward the end of the month. As long as you’re equipped with a good spring jacket, you’ll be fine. It is a gradual change, but the temperature variation can cause you to get sick. The Korea spring months are usually from March to May. Spring time in Korea starts off pretty cool and then warms up quickly in May.
March Weather in Korea
South Korea in spring towards the beginning is quite chilly. Korea in March brings average high temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and an average low temperature of 0°C (32°F). South Korea in March can still be pretty chilly! Toward the end of March in Korea many of the cherry blossoms will bloom. The trees are also pretty bare until the end of the month.
April Weather in Korea
Spring in Korea in my opinion has the best weather of the year. It’s not too hot and not too cold. Korea in April brings average high temperatures of 17°C (63°F). In the evenings temperatures reach an average low of 6°C (43°F).
May Weather in Korea
Spring weather in South Korea typically means May is the hottest month of the season. Korea in May brings average daily temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 12°C (54°F). Some days it truly feels like summer while in the evenings can feel quite cool. It’s easy to get sunburned during May in Korea so bring your best sunscreen.
2024 Korea Cherry Blossom Forecast
The 2024 South Korea cherry blossom forecast has arrived! The parts of Korea where the cherry blossoms bloom first is usually down in Jeju Island. Here you’ll find the peak time for all the popular spots for cherry blossoms.
- Jeju Island – March 24, 2024
- Busan – March 22, 2024
- Jeonju – March 29, 2024
- Gangneung – March 31, 2024
- Seoul – April 3, 2023
2024 Korea Azalea Forecast
- Busan – March 19, 2024
- Jeonju – March 25, 2024
- Gangneung – March 24, 2024
- Seoul – March 29, 2024
- Incheon – March 26, 2024
Public Holidays in Korea During Spring
There are lots of notable public holidays in Korea during spring. Since many people have off during public holidays you’ll see many people traveling during this time. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and experience Korean culture. In 2024, the Korea in spring public holidays are:
- Independence Movement Day – March 1, 2024
- Children’s Day – May 6, 2024
- Buddha’s Birthday – May 15, 2024
What To Eat in Spring in Korea
Every season in Korea brings delicious seasonal foods to try. I love spring in Korea because of all the delicious “cherry blossom” flavored snacks and drinks that become available during this time.
Cherry Blossom EVERYTHING
- Cherry Blossom and Apple Minute Maid
- Cherry Blossom GS25 Sparkling Soda
- Cherry Blossom Pepero
- Cherry Blossom Popcorn
- Cherry Blossom CocaCola
- Starbucks Cherry Blossom Collection
Strawberries
You can also try foods like strawberries. They’re most fresh in early to late spring. You can even go on a strawberry picking excursion and eat all the strawberries your stomach can hold. You can do a really cool tour where you visit Nami Island, Petite France, and go strawberry picking. Also one of my favorite buffets, the Barbie Salon de Ddalki is done from December to May at the JW Marriot in Dongdaemun. There, you can have tea with Barbie in a beautiful Salon and mouth watering desserts that will make you truly enjoy the atmosphere. You can book your Barbie Buffet at the JW Marriott in Dongdaemun here.
Where To See Cherry Blossoms in Seoul
The best time to go to Seoul Korea is late March and early April. Global warming has been making the cherry blossoms bloom a lot earlier than expected. Peak time for cherry blossoms in Seoul is now usually the last week of March. Regardless, after autumn in Seoul, spring time in Seoul is my next favorite time of year. For a full guide on where to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, click here.
Namsan Tower
The best time to travel in Seoul is when the cherry blossoms bloom. In Asian countries like South Korea and Japan, they’re considered the start of a year. Spring in Seoul is marked by many festivals, cherry blossom viewings, and cherry blossom themed food. The Namsan Park is an excellent cherry blossom viewing spot in Seoul. You can book your tickets for the Namsan Tower cable car here.
Lotte World Mall in Jamsil
My spring fashion in Korea really comes to life. After months of bundling up in heavy jackets, the spring season in South Korea gives me a chance to show off my favorite pieces. I highly recommend taking a walk in early spring at the courtyard of Lotte World Mall in Jamsil. The grounds are super beautiful and they’re not crowded.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
April in Korea is a fun time to visit the grand palaces. Gyeongbokgung is the best place to rent a pink hanbok to take pictures among the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Go in early spring so you can catch the cherry blossoms before they leave. I think it’s one of the most beautiful places to take pictures with the spring flowers in Seoul.
Seokchon Lake Park
The Seokchon Lake Park Cherry Blossom Korea spring festival is a totally underrated one. I lived very close to Jamsil. It’s a great place for eating, shopping, and playing. The last year I went was in 2020 right when the pandemic was happening.
This is one of my absolute favorite cherry blossom spots in Seoul. Just look how romantic the road looks with the Lotte Tower in the background. While you’re here, I recommend checking out Seoul Sky and of course Lotte World.
Yeouido Hangang Park
The temperature in South Korea in April brings sunny days and beautiful blue skies (sometimes). They’re so breathtaking and romantic. Seoul in spring is best enjoyed around the Han River for picnics and even a romantic Han River sunset cruise!
The cherry blossom trees at Yeouido Hangang Park usually bloom late March. The Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is one of the most popular spots to see a pink cherry blossom. Yeouido Park draws large crowds every year so be sure to go in the morning.
Seoul Forest Cherry Blossoms
I also recommend climbing Eungbongsan Mountain for excellent views of Seoul Forest and the Han River. Many people will go picnic during this time of year and have a great time.
Spring Activities in Korea
Wondering where to go in Korea? There are so many amazing places to visit and so many incredible places to see in Korea during spring. The arrival of spring in Korea means there are lots of Korean flower festivals to attend. I highly recommend keeping an eye out for the spring flower forecast for Korea.
Spring Flower Festivals in Korea
If there’s one thing I enjoyed about living in Asia is spring in South Korea. There’s no better way to enjoy your Seoul trip than going to a Korean spring festival. Peak cherry blossom season will usually be the end of March and first week of April. For a complete list on the best spring festivals in Korea, click here.
1. Jeju Canola Festival | 제주 유채꽃축제
When: March 5, 2024 – June 18, 2024
Since Jeju is the southernmost province of Korea, you can expect for spring to find this lovely island first. You can see the canola yellow blooms at Seopjikoji, Noksan Road, Jeju Horse Park, and Sanbangsan. The festival period to see the canola flowers is the longest one in Korea.
Fun fact. The canola flowers grow very well in Jeju’s not so rich soil. In 1983 there was a festival held to promote the beauty of the canola flowers. Since then, it’s turned into a huge event that attracts visitors from all over. You can hire a private taxi or van to take you around. Alternatively, you can either rent a car in Jeju or book a tour that will take you to see the cherry blossoms as well.
2. Gwangyang Maehwa Festival | 광양매화축제
When: March 8, 2024 – March 20, 2024
The South Korea spring season kicks off with the Maehwa aka plum blossoms. They’re white and the trees grow a lot closer to the ground. The festival boasts delicious food stands along the mountain and a special Maehwa flavored ice cream which is tart, sweet, and delicious. The entire mountainside is decked in these beautiful flowers and trees. It’s simply breathtaking.
If you choose to do your own DIY tour, there is parking available very far from the festival grounds and your feet will be aching by the time you start climbing the mountain. I recommend getting up at the butt crack of dawn and getting there with all the early morning hikers. You also can book a tour to the Gwangyang Maehwa Festival here.
3. Gurye Sansuyu Festival 구례산수유꽃축제
When: March 9, 2024 – March 17, 2024
Sansuyu means cornelian cherry flower in Korean. It is a really beautiful flower. These bright blooms paint the beautiful village of Gurye yellow. The festival is held at the base of Jirisan Mountain located in Jeollanam-do Province. Like any Korean festival there will be delicious foods to eat and photo opportunities to be had. One of the easiest ways to experience the Gurye Sansuyu Festival in the Korean countryside is by booking a tour.
4. Jindo Sea Parting Festival | 진도 신비의바닷길축제
When: March 11, 2024 – March 13, 2024
According to legend, the island of Jindo was once plagued by many ravenous and killer tigers. Fearing these majestic beasts, the villagers would often flee and seek refuge on a smaller island off the coast of Jindo. During one of the many escapes little Granny Ppong was left behind. Desperately wishing to be reunited with her family, she prayed to the Gods and asked them for a way to get to them. They answered her prayers by sending the tide down low and allowed her to walk across the sea.
Every year for the last 40 odd years, Jindo has celebrated these magical story with the Jindo Sea Parting Festival. If you’ve ever heard of the famous Korean Jindo dog, you’ll also know the dog comes from this island as well. During the festival, they also put on a Jindo dog show where you can even watch these beautiful animals paint.
If you want to DIY The Jindo Miracle Sea Parting Festival click here. Since this festival is meant to ferry visitors from around Korea, you’ll find a lot of tour buses. The easiest way to get to the Jindo Miracle Sea Parting festival is to book a tour.
5. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival | 진해군항제
When: March 25, 2024 – April 5, 2024
Also called the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, April in South Korea brings the most famous cherry blossom festivals. They have free shuttle buses that will take you to all the major sites and every road is lined with cherry trees and food stalls. Make sure you get pictures at Gyeonghwa Station which is the iconic cherry blossom railway. Also, take photos as Yeojwacheon Stream.
Fun fact. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival history began in 1952 as a memorial event for 16th-century war hero Admiral Yi Sun-shin. During festival days, there are different cherry blossom foods to try, cultural activities, and cute trinkets to purchase. Book a tour to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival here.
6. Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival | 경주 벚꽃축제
When: March 25, 2024 – April 7, 2024
Gyeongju is Korea’s historic old capitol and has a lot of Korean history. It boasts UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a lake, and an amusement park completely lined by cherry trees. This Korean festival showcases cultural performances as well.
While you’re there, it’s easy to rent a scooter and take off exploring on your own. In Gyeongju, you can see the beautiful king cherry blossoms. Bomun Lake in Gyeongju has stunning cherry You can book a tour to the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival here.
7. Everland Tulip Festival 에버랜드 튤립축제
When: TBD 2024
Late April in Korea usually brings the Everland Theme Park Tulip Festival. The Four Seasons Garden at Everland is filled with 1.2 million spring flowers including tulips, daffodils, and grape hyacinths. It even features a 26 meter magic flower tower which is bound to impress everyone on your Instagram. You can get your Everland tickets here.
8. Yeon Deung Hoe | Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival | 연등회
May 10, 2024 – May 12, 2024
This festival usually takes place the weekend before Buddha’s Birthday. The birthday celebrations usually lasts all week, but this amazing parade in Seoul starts at 7pm. You can see a lantern parade in Seoul that lasts for about two and a half hours.
Bongeunsa Temple Buddha’s Birthday Celebration | 부처님 오신 날
When: April 15, 2024 – May 15, 2024
Though Bongeunsa Temple’s celebrations are not as big as Jogyesa Temple’s celebrations, they’re nothing to scoff at. Located in eastern Seoul across from the CoEx Mall, you’ll find this quiet temple tucked away from the hustle and bustle. The temple will also be decorated with brightly colored lanterns and you can get a free vegetarian bibimbap to eat along with other vegetarian temple foods.
Jogyesa Temple Buddha’s Birthday Celebration | 부처님 오신 날
When: April 15, 2024 – May 15, 2024
Buddha’s Birthday changes every year as it is dictated by the lunar calendar. Jogyesa Temple is one of Seoul’s most poplar and well-known Buddhist Temples, you’ll find it decorate in thousands of brightly colored lanterns to celebrate the big man himself. The temple will usually host activities outside like making paper lotus lanterns and beaded prayer necklaces. At night, they usually host a night lantern parade for all to enjoy and many cultural events.
9. Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival | 영등포 여의도 봄꽃축제
When: March 27, 2023 – March 31, 2024
With the Han River and N Seoul Tower as a backdrop for these beautiful blossoms, it’s hard not to have a good time here. More than 1,600 Yoshino cherry trees bloom alongside the river. You’ll also see 90,000 flowers including azaleas, forsythias and spireas.
10. Taean Tulip Festival |태안 튤립축제
When: April 12, 2024 – May 7, 2024
This is one of the best spring festivals and one of the most popular with locals and international visitors. Over 1.2 million tulips are displayed for the public to enjoy and take pictures with. At the festival, you will also find other gorgeous flowers like lupine, foxglove, and lilies. You can book a tour to see the Taean Tulip Festival here.
11. Gunpo Royal Azalea Festival | 책나라군포 철쭉축제
When: April 28, 2023 – April 30, 2023 | TBA 2024
When I first moved to Korea, I lived in Gunpo. And how I truly miss it. Before I get into a reverie of the good ol’ days, every year, Gunpo has a spring festival. Located on Surisan, mountain, the Gunpo Royal Azalea Festival is a site to truly behold. The entire mountain is painted red, purple and white with these gorgeous blooms. For more information, check out Gunpo’s Official Festival website.
12. Boseong Green Tea Festival | 보성다향대축제
When: May 3, 2024 – May 7, 2024
The Korea temperature in May makes it super wonderful to visit the Boseong Green tea fields. I love everything green tea. The more Earthy it tastes, the more I like it. Did you know Boseong produces 40% of Korea’s domestic green tea? The Boseong Green Tea Plantation opened in 1957. Every May when the leaves are the greenest, a festival is held to pray to the Tea God for good harvest and tea making. You can book a tour with round trip transport here.
13. Gokseong Rose Festival | 곡성 세계장미축제
When: May 20, 2023 – May 29, 2023 | TBD 2024
May in South Korea bring the Gokseong Rose Festival. It is usually held late May to early June at the Seomjingang Train Village. The train lends to the atmosphere and makes for romantic scenery. Them theme is usually always fragrance, love and dreams. For ten days, the festival takes place at Rose Park in Seomjingang Train Village. It celebrates 1,004 types of roses blooming all over. You can find more information about the Gokseong Rose Festival here.
14. Samcheok Rose Festival | 삼척 장미 축제
When: May 27, 2023 – June 2, 2023 | TBD 2024
South Korea in May can get quite hot on some days. The Samcheok Rose Festival is located at the Osipcheon Stream Rose Park. This park boasts 10 million roses with 200 different kinds. It’s a truly unique and wonderful experience. There will be cultural exhibitions and performances. You can book a tour to the Samcheok Rose Festival here.
15. Olympic Park Rose Garden |올림픽 공원 장미 정원
When: Late May
Seoul in May get a special treat with the beautiful roses at the Olympic Park Rose Garden. It’s a small garden, but beautiful and a great way to spend the afternoon. You can also picnic in the park if you’d like. The best part about the Olympic Park Rose Garden? It’s completely FREE. Just get off at the (Line 5) purple line Olympic Park Station exit 3.
This Korea spring travel guide will help you plan your itinerary. There are so many amazing spring activities in Korea, it’s almost impossible to them all. Koreans love to celebrate the coming of a new season with delicious food and flower festivals. Springtime in South Korea is such a special time of year, it feels like a holiday within itself. After a harsh winter and late winter, I know I’m getting ready for the mild temperatures.
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