As the seasons change and the weather warms, South Korea comes alive with a vibrant lineup of festivals celebrating the beauty of nature, the richness of Korean culture, and the excitement of summer festivities. From breathtaking cherry blossom displays in spring to thrilling beachside events in summer, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in traditional Korean heritage, indulge in food and music festivals, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the country, spring and summer in Korea offer an unforgettable experience.
Spring Festival (Mars-May 2025)🌷
1. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival 🌸
One of Korea’s most famous and breathtaking spring festivals, the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival is a must-visit event for cherry blossom lovers. Taking place in Jinhae, Changwon, this festival attracts millions of visitors who come to witness the mesmerizing sight of over 350,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom. The highlight of the festival is the picturesque Yeojwacheon Stream, where delicate pink petals cover the water’s surface, creating a magical scene that looks straight out of a fairytale. Visitors can also enjoy parades, cultural performances, and a stunning fireworks show over the Jinhae coastline.
📅 Dates: March 23 – April 6, 2025
📍 Location: Jinhae, Changwon
2. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival 🌸
For those in Seoul, the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is the perfect place to enjoy cherry blossoms without leaving the city. Taking place along Yunjung-ro Road, next to the National Assembly Building, this festival offers visitors a chance to walk under a canopy of cherry trees while enjoying a variety of street performances, night illuminations, and local food stalls. The beauty of the blossoms reflecting on the nearby Han River makes it an ideal spot for photography and romantic evening strolls.
📅 Dates: Early April 2025 (Exact dates TBA)
📍 Location: Yeouido, Seoul
3. Seoul Spring Festa 🎶
The Seoul Spring Festa is a city-wide celebration that welcomes the new season with live performances, food markets, and cultural events spread across multiple venues, including Seoul World Cup Stadium and Seoul Plaza. As one of the largest spring festivals in the capital, this event offers an exciting mix of K-pop concerts, art exhibitions, and family-friendly activities, making it a fantastic way to experience Seoul’s vibrant cultural scene.
📅 Dates: April 30 – May 6, 2025
📍 Location: Seoul World Cup Stadium & Seoul Plaza
🌞 Summer festivals (June- August 2025):
4. Boryeong Mud Festival 🛶
As temperatures rise, the Boryeong Mud Festival offers the ultimate way to cool down while having an absolute blast. Held at Daecheon Beach, this world-famous event invites festival-goers to jump into giant mud pits, slide down mudslides, and participate in mud wrestling matches. The mineral-rich mud of Boryeong is believed to have therapeutic benefits for the skin, so visitors can enjoy both fun and beauty treatments at the same time. In the evenings, the beach transforms into a lively party scene with fireworks, concerts, and DJ performances.
📅 Dates: July 19–28, 2025
📍 Location: Daecheon Beach, Boryeong
5. Busan Sea Festival 🌊
For those looking for the ultimate summer beach festival, the Busan Sea Festival is the perfect destination. Taking place at Haeundae and Gwangalli Beach, this festival brings together live music, dance performances, water sports competitions, and beach parties. The highlight of the event is the sunset DJ parties, where visitors can dance under the stars with the ocean waves as a backdrop.
📅 Dates: August 2025 (Exact dates TBA)
📍 Location: Haeundae & Gwangalli Beach, Busan
6. Seoul Philharmonic Riverside Concert 🎻
For a more relaxed and sophisticated summer experience, the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra hosts a breathtaking riverside concert at Yeouido Hangang Park. Featuring classical music performances under the open sky, this event provides the perfect setting for those who want to unwind while enjoying world-class music in a scenic environment.
📅 Dates: June 13–14, 2025
📍 Location: Yeouido Hangang Park, Seoul
📋 Summary Table: Spring & Summer Festivals in Korea (2025)
| Festival Name | Date | Location | Why Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jinhae Gunhangje Festival 🌸 | March 23 – April 6 | Jinhae, Changwon | Cherry blossoms, parades, fireworks 🎆 |
| Yeouido Spring Flower Festival | Early April (TBA) | Yeouido, Seoul | Cherry blossoms along the Han River |
| Jeju Fire Festival 🔥 | March (TBA) | Jeju Island | Traditional fire rituals, folk games🔥 |
| Seoul Spring Festa 🎶 | April 30 – May 6 | Seoul | Music, cultural performances, foodmarkets 🎭 |
| Boryeong Mud Festival 🏖️ | July 19–28 | Daecheon Beach, Boryeong | Mud fights, beach parties, concerts 🎉 |
| Busan Sea Festival 🌊 | August (TBA) | Haeundae, Busan | Beach events, DJ parties, water sports 🏄♂️ |
| Seoul Philharmonic Concert 🎻 | June 13–14 | Yeouido Hangang Park, Seoul | Classical music by the river |