Cherry Blossom Season in South Korea 2025: Top Places And Dates to Visit

After enduring months of cold and dreary winters, South Korea transforms into a breathtaking vision of pink as cherry blossom trees bloom across the country. Known locally as “beot kkeot,” these delicate pastel pink and white blooms signal the much-anticipated arrival of spring. Their beauty, however, is fleeting—one moment the country is awash in cotton candy canopies, and the next, the petals fall like snowflakes, disappearing almost as quickly as they arrived.

For those planning a trip to South Korea in 2025 to witness this natural spectacle, this guide provides all the essential details. From the cherry blossom forecast to the best spots for viewing, everything needed to experience South Korea’s cherry blossoms is covered.

Also read: Cherry Blossom Season in Japan: Top Places And Dates to Visit in 2025

When is cherry blossom season in South Korea?

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Cherry blossom season varies depending on the region, with blooming dates spanning from late March to early April. Visitors should plan their trips carefully to catch these ephemeral blooms at their peak. In 2025, forecasts indicate that the blossoms will follow the usual pattern, with southern cities like Busan blooming earlier and northern areas like Seoul blooming later.

Best times to visit for cherry blossoms

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The best time to see cherry blossoms in South Korea is typically from late March to early April. The blossoms only last about two weeks, so timing is crucial. Travellers should monitor the forecast and plan accordingly to ensure they catch the blooms to their fullest.

Top Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in South Korea

Here’s a city-by-city breakdown of the best places to enjoy cherry blossoms in 2025:

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1. Seoul

As the capital city, Seoul offers numerous picturesque locations for cherry blossom viewing. Seokchon Lake, surrounded by over 300,000 cherry blossom trees, provides stunning mirrored reflections on the water. The annual Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival at Yeouido Park is another must-visit, offering scenic views along the Han River amidst festival booths and entertainment. For a cultural backdrop, Gyeongbokgung Palace features cherry blossoms draped over its historic pavilions and bridges.

Forecast blooming date: Early April (Week 1–Week 2)

2. Incheon

Incheon is not just home to South Korea’s major international airport—it also boasts beautiful cherry blossom spots. Incheon Liberty Park is lined with cherry trees, while Incheon Grand Park features a 1.5-kilometre cherry blossom path perfect for leisurely strolls. Wolmi Island, with its amusement park rides, offers a unique experience of blossoms mixed with thrills.

Forecast blooming date: Early April (Week 1–Week 2)

3. Busan

As one of South Korea’s southernmost cities, Busan sees cherry blossoms earlier than most places. Popular spots include Oncheoncheon Cafe Street, where visitors can enjoy blossoms while sipping coffee, and Namcheon-dong, known for its cherry blossom-lined roads. Gwangalli Beach is nearby, providing a serene seaside retreat.

Forecast blooming date: Late March

4. Chuncheon

Located near Seoul, Chuncheon makes for an ideal day trip. Nami Island, famous for its picturesque Cherry Tree Lane, turns into a pink paradise in spring. Visitors can also explore other nearby attractions to complement their cherry blossom experience.

Forecast blooming date: Early April (Week 1–Week 2)

5. Gangneung

The coastal city of Gangneung offers a unique cherry blossom experience at Gyeongpo Lake. Visitors can bike around the lake while enjoying the vibrant blooms. The Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival adds festive energy to this scenic spot.

Forecast blooming date: Early April

6. Jeonju

Jeonju, known for its cultural heritage, becomes even more enchanting in spring. Jeonju Wansan Park is home to King Cherry Blossoms, offering a palette of pink hues. The Maisan Mountain cherry blossom tunnel provides a magical experience for visitors.

Forecast blooming date: Early April

7. Cheongju

Cheongju’s Musimcheon Cherry Blossom Road is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. The annual Musimcheon Cherry Blossom Festival features local food, performances, and festive activities, making it an unforgettable experience.

Forecast blooming date: Early April

8. Daegu

Daegu offers a variety of cherry blossom spots, including E-World Amusement Park, which provides panoramic views of the blossoms. Cycling along Anyanggyo Bridge is another popular activity, with cherry blossoms lining the path along the Daegu River.

Forecast blooming date: Late March

9. Daejeon

Daejeon O-World, an amusement park and flower paradise, is a highlight of the city’s cherry blossom season. Visitors can also admire vibrant tulips alongside the cherry blossoms.

Forecast blooming date: Early April

10. Gwangju

In Gwangju, Jungoe Park offers a family-friendly cherry blossom experience with playgrounds, museums, and scenic bridges enhanced by pastel-pink blooms.

Forecast blooming date: Late March

Activities during cherry blossom season

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During cherry blossom season in South Korea, there are countless ways to immerse oneself in the vibrant celebrations and natural beauty. Travelers can truly make the most of their visit by indulging in a mix of cultural, festive, and leisurely activities.

Attend Festivals: Cherry blossom festivals are a cornerstone of this season. These events are not just about the flowers; they also feature local food stalls, traditional games, and captivating live performances. Among these, the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival stands out as a must-visit, offering over 350,000 blooming cherry trees, cultural displays, and parades.

Picnic Under the Blossoms: A cherished tradition among locals is spreading out a picnic blanket beneath the blooming trees. Visitors can partake by enjoying simple, delicious meals in this serene, picture-perfect setting.

Visit Amusement Parks: Many of South Korea’s amusement parks, such as E-World in Daegu, transform into floral paradises during cherry blossom season. The blend of exhilarating rides and the soft, pastel-pink canopy creates a unique experience for visitors.

Wear Hanbok for Photos: Renting a traditional Korean hanbok is a popular activity, especially in historic locations like palaces. The elegant attire paired with the backdrop of blooming cherry blossoms makes for stunning photographs and a culturally enriching experience.

Bike or Walk Along Scenic Trails: Cities like Gangneung and Chuncheon offer picturesque walking and biking trails lined with cherry blossoms. These trails provide an intimate way to enjoy the blooms while soaking in the fresh spring air.

Whether strolling along a lake adorned with blossoms or enjoying the lively atmosphere of festivals, visitors can find activities that cater to every preference during South Korea’s cherry blossom season. There’s more to cherry blossom season than simply admiring the blooms.