Winter is over, and Korea is finally waking up from its icy slumber. The crisp air turns warmer, trees shake off their frost, and the first flowers of the season start to bloom. It’s the perfect time to step outside, soak in the sunshine, and witness South Korea transform into a pastel paradise. If you’ve been waiting for the ultimate spring getaway, this is the best time. And lucky for you, South Korea knows how to celebrate the season with some of the most breathtaking Spring festivals in March 2025.
Springtime Magic: The Best March Festivals in South Korea 2025
Spring in South Korea is nothing short of magical. After months of winter, the country bursts back to life with a spectacular display of blossoms, festivals, and outdoor celebrations.
That is why March is the perfect time to experience vibrant flowers, traditional markets, and cultural festivities. And you can experience all these under clear blue skies and the soft warmth of spring.
So, are you looking for breathtaking cherry blossom tunnels, golden canola fields, or dazzling nighttime illuminations? South Korea is lining up various festivals in March 2025, packed with experiences that will leave you in awe. And here are 11 must-visit festivals to make your Korean spring adventure unforgettable.
1. Gwangyang Maehwa Festival
📍 Gwangyang, Jeollanam-do
📅 March 7 – 16, 2025
Spring officially kicks off with the Gwangyang Maehwa Festival, where the first blossoms of the season cover the hillsides of Gwangyang Maehwa Village in a soft, snowy white. These apricot flowers (maehwa) create an ethereal landscape along the Seomjingang River, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
Take a leisurely stroll beneath the blossoms, sip on maesil (green plum) tea, and savor local specialties like Gwangyang bulgogi. If you have extra time, pair your visit with a trip to the picturesque Jeonju Hanok Village for a deeper dive into Korean tradition.
2. Gurye Sansuyu Festival
📍 Gurye, Jeollanam-do
📅 March 15 – 23, 2025
Not all spring flowers are pink! The Gurye Sansuyu Festival showcases a sea of golden cornelian cherry blossoms (sansuyu) against the stunning backdrop of Jirisan Mountain. Located near the scenic Jirisan Hot Springs Resort, this festival offers a mix of breathtaking views, folk performances, and local delicacies like sansuyu-infused tea and rice wine.
Don’t miss a visit to Hwaeomsa Temple, one of Korea’s most famous Buddhist temples, to round out your trip with a peaceful and historic experience.
3. Canola Flowers in Jeju Island
📍 Jeju Island
📅 March – April 2025
Jeju Island in spring is a dream. As cherry blossoms start blooming, the island’s rolling fields turn a brilliant shade of yellow with canola flowers, creating picture-perfect scenery. Some of the best spots to enjoy this spectacle include Hueree Natural Park, Sanbangsan Mountain, and Seopjikoji Hill.
For an even better experience, book a Jeju taxi tour to explore hidden flower fields, coastal cliffs, and local markets—without worrying about public transportation.
4. Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival
📍 Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do
📅 Until March 16, 2025
This is your last chance to witness the Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival, where thousands of colorful LED lights illuminate the vast gardens in a magical winter-spring transition. As the festival ends, the garden shifts into spring mode, with early blooms like magnolias and forsythia taking center stage.
Pair your visit with a stop at Nami Island, famous for its tree-lined paths and romantic atmosphere.
5. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
📍 Jinhae, Gyeongsangnam-do
📅 March 28 – April 6, 2025
This is the biggest cherry blossom festival in Korea, attracting millions of visitors every year. The streets of Jinhae transform into a pink wonderland, with Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station offering postcard-perfect views of cherry blossoms magic cascading over bridges and train tracks.
Visit in the evening to see the Romance Bridge illuminated under a canopy of blossoms, creating a dreamy, unforgettable experience.
6. Daegu E-World Cherry Blossom Festival
📍 Daegu
📅 March 15 – April 6, 2025
For a cherry blossom festival with a fun twist, head to Daegu E-World, the city’s largest theme park. Imagine whirling through roller coasters surrounded by soft pink petals—it’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Climb up to 83 Tower Observatory for a panoramic view of Daegu’s cherry blossoms, or visit in the evening to enjoy the trees lit up in a fairytale glow.
7. Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival
📍 Hwagae, Hadong-gun
📅 March 28 – 30, 2025
Less touristy but equally breathtaking, the Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Korea’s hidden gems. The main attraction is the 10-Ri Cherry Blossom Road, a 4-km stretch lined with blooming cherry trees that create a romantic pink tunnel.
Legend has it that couples who walk this path together will get married—so if you’re traveling with a special someone, take a stroll and make a wish for everlasting love.
8. Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
📍 Seoul
📅 April 2 – 5, 2025
If you’re in Seoul during cherry blossom season, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is the perfect urban retreat. The lake’s walking trails are surrounded by cherry trees, and the view of Lotte World Tower peeking through the blossoms makes for fantastic photos.
Visit at sunset for a magical pink-and-gold sky reflection over the lake, and grab a seasonal cherry blossom latte at a nearby café.
9. Andong Cherry Blossom Festival
📍 Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do
📅 TBA (Late March–Early April Expected)
Known for its rich cultural heritage, Andong is the perfect place to enjoy cherry blossoms without the big city crowds. The festival’s main area, Talchum Park, features traditional music, folk performances, and pink-lined walking paths along the river.
Combine this trip with a visit to Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO-listed site that showcases Korea’s well-preserved hanok (traditional houses) and mask dance traditions.
10. Wonmisan Mountain Azalea Festival
📍 Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do
📅 TBA (Late March–Early April Expected)
Looking for something beyond cherry blossoms? The Wonmisan Mountain Azalea Festival turns the landscape into a mesmerizing sea of vibrant pink and purple azaleas. With over 150,000 azalea trees covering the hillside, this festival is a must-see for flower lovers.
The hike to the top is relatively easy, and the panoramic view of Bucheon is well worth the effort.
11. Hyeonchungsa Plum Blossom Festival
📍 Asan, Chungcheongnam-do
📅 March 1–3, 2025
Plum blossoms mark the true start of spring, and Hyeonchungsa Shrine is one of the best places to see them. This festival, held at the historic site dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-sin, features stunning pink blooms and cultural performances.
It’s a peaceful, historical spot that feels like a step back in time—perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
And there you have it! South Korea most captivating March festivals in 2025, each celebrating the newfound warmth and spirit of spring. With so many blossoms and cultural experiences to explore, you’ll want to plan ahead and possibly book tours to avoid missing out on these short-lived displays of nature’s beauty
So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready to embrace the season of new beginnings. Spring is calling in these vibrant March festivals in South Korea 2025, but are you ready to answer?
*Festival schedule may change, so make sure to check official website
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