South Korea: What you should know about the 2025 cherry blossom season
When we think of cherry blossoms , the image of Japan is usually the first that comes to mind. However, South Korea has also become a prime destination to enjoy " beot-kkot, " as this phenomenon is known in Korean, or " sakura " in Japanese.
This blooming season is a celebration of nature , a time when the East Asian country is adorned in shades of pink and white , offering a magical experience for visitors. Though fleeting , the cherry blossom season in Korea attracts travelers from all over the world who dream of witnessing the beauty of spring .
When to travel to South Korea to see the bloom
Cherry blossom season in Korea varies depending on the region and climate , generally spanning from late March to mid-April . In the south , such as Jeju and Busan , cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March , while in northern areas like Seoul and Incheon , they bloom in April .
Although these timeframes are estimates , the charm of cherry blossoms only lasts for one to two weeks , with the peak of flowering being a brief phase, in which the flowers reach their maximum splendor before the petals fall .
According to EXO Travel , these would be the average blooming dates for the 2025 cherry blossom season : Jeju Island (March 18-25); Gyeongju and Busan (March 24-30); Seoul , Chuncheon and Incheon (April 5-12).
Given that cherry blossom season is brief, it's advisable to plan your visit around the average blooming dates for your region. Additionally, weather can affect the bloom, so it's wise to check local forecasts and adjust your dates accordingly.
Seoul, a must-see
During cherry blossom season , several cities and towns in Korea host special festivals dedicated to the blooming trees . These events not only highlight the beauty of the cherry blossoms but also allow visitors to experience Korean culture through performances , local cuisine , live music , and nighttime tree illuminations.
South Korea's capital , Seoul , offers numerous locations for viewing cherry blossoms . In Yeouido Park , the trees line the Han River , creating a stunning corridor of flowers . The Yeouido Spring Blossom Festival is held there, where thousands of visitors enjoy the sight of illuminated cherry blossoms at night, accompanied by street performances and a variety of food stalls .
Another essential Seoul spot for beot-kkot is Seokchon Lake , which offers the chance to see cherry blossoms reflected in its tranquil waters. Meanwhile, on Namsan Mountain , cherry blossoms line the hiking trails , offering views of Seoul bathed in shades of pink and white .
Other ideal destinations for beot-kkot
Held on Jeju Island , the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival marks the first cherry blossom season in Korea and offers a unique experience with real cherry trees , as well as traditional events and local cuisine .
On this island, Jeju National University is known for its unique royal cherry trees , while the surrounding area celebrates the arrival of spring with performances and street food stalls in Jeonnong-ro and downtown Seogwipo .
Another highlight is the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival , one of South Korea 's largest and most renowned cherry blossom events . Jinhae is famous for its natural arches of cherry trees lining its streets, especially around Gyeonghwa Station and Yeojwacheon Stream . This event includes military bands , parades , and fireworks .
The port city of Busan also lights up with the arrival of spring , with the Oncheoncheon stream as the main protagonist, which is transformed into a picturesque path lined with cherry trees , while Dalmaji Hill allows visitors to enjoy the view of the sea framed by pink petals .
In Andong , the Woryeonggyo Bridge and Hahoe Village are perfect for panoramic photos . Meanwhile, Gyeongju is filled with cherry blossoms , and Bomun Lake and its surroundings, including Bulguksa Temple and the Ancient Tombs of Gyeongju , are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites .
Visiting South Korea during cherry blossom season is an unforgettable experience , where you can connect with landscapes covered in blossoms and Korean culture at its most vibrant with its lively festivals . A unique spectacle that blends tradition and beauty !
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