It's not just about cherry blossoms ! Essential spring flower sea information in South Korea

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department compiled and reported
 
When the spring breeze is gentle, head to South Korea for a floral adventure ! According to a report by Kweather, the 2018 cherry blossom season began on March 25th in Jeju Island, the southernmost part of the country. The southern regions are expected to see blooms from March 28th to April 4th, the central regions from April 3rd to 10th, and Seoul around April 8th when flowers start to bloom on the branches. The peak blooming period is estimated to be about a week after the initial flowering, and the Korea Tourism Organization along with related entities will also host a series of free lectures to share hidden cherry blossom spots !

When it comes to spring cherry blossom viewing, South Korea hosts various cherry blossom festivals from south to north, such as the earliest blooming 'Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival', the 'Flower Market Cherry Blossom Festival' that couples are said to walk through together once in a lifetime, enjoying a spring feast at Seoul’s 'Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Yeongdeungpo', and the must-see 'Jinhae Gunhangje Festival' which attracts over 2 million visitors every year.

The Jinhae Gunhangje Festival runs from April 1st to 10th. Originally held to commemorate Admiral Yi Sun-sin, who led the naval forces to a great victory against Japan during the Joseon Dynasty, it is now famous for its annual cherry blossom blooms. The most iconic spot is Yeosu Stream, where pink and white cherry blossom trees line both sides, arching gracefully over the stream. As dusk falls, the area around Yeosu Stream and the Romance Bridge are illuminated with colorful lights and lasers, offering a completely different atmosphere from daytime. Another cherry blossom highlight is the cherry blossom-themed train station, open only during the Gunhangje Festival, featuring an impressive 800-meter-long cherry blossom tunnel. If you have the chance to view cherry blossoms in Busan, be sure to check out the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival !

In addition to cherry blossoms, rhododendrons are another eye-catching highlight of spring. Yeosu in South Jeolla Province, known for its azure South Sea and beautiful islands, is dyed pink across the region in April as rhododendrons burst into full bloom, creating a spectacular landscape. Especially on Youngchwisan Mountain, where the entire mountaintop is covered with pink rhododendrons, it becomes a prime tourist destination. The 'Youngchwisan Rhododendron Festival' held from March 30th to April 1st this year offers visitors a rich program including the Youngchwisan Rhododendron Music Concert and special mountain performances by the Rhododendron Art Troupe.