Must-Visit Seasonal Festivals in South Korea


South Korea is a country with distinct four seasons, and each season brings its own unique festivals. These festivals are a great way to experience the rich culture and traditions of Korea while enjoying the beauty of each season. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to some of the must-visit seasonal festivals in South Korea. Each festival offers a unique experience based on the time of year and location, making it a perfect addition to your travel itinerary.

Spring: Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival



Location: Jinhae-gu, Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do
Period: Early April

The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most famous cherry blossom festivals in South Korea, held annually in early April. This festival coincides with the peak cherry blossom season, turning the entire city of Jinhae into a pink paradise. Popular spots like Yeojwacheon Stream, Gyeonghwa Station, and Anmingogae Road are must-see areas where you can capture stunning photos. The festival also features various cultural events, parades, and fireworks, providing visitors with a delightful experience.

Key Attractions:

  • Yeojwacheon Stream: Famous for its cherry blossom tunnel, this spot is known as a romantic destination, often featured in dramas.
  • Gyeonghwa Station: Although no longer in operation, this station is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing along the train tracks.
  • Military Band and Honor Guard Festival: During the festival, you can watch parades and performances by military bands and honor guards.

Summer: Boryeong Mud Festival



Location: Daecheon Beach, Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do
Period: Mid-July

The Boryeong Mud Festival is one of South Korea's most popular summer festivals, known worldwide. This festival, held at Daecheon Beach, offers a variety of mud-related activities, including mud baths, mud slides, and mud massages. The mud used in the festival is rich in minerals, making it beneficial for the skin. The festival also features concerts and fireworks in the evening, making it a fun and lively event.

Key Attractions:

  • Mud Experience Zone: Participate in various activities like mud wrestling, mud baths, and mud slides.
  • Mud Massage: Experience a relaxing mud massage that’s good for your skin.
  • Beach Concerts: Enjoy live concerts and fireworks on the beach, adding to the summer fun.

Fall: Andong Mask Dance Festival



Location: Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Period: Late September to Early October

The Andong Mask Dance Festival is a celebration of Korea’s traditional culture, focusing on mask dances known as "talchum." Andong, a city famous for preserving traditional Korean culture, hosts this annual festival that features not only traditional Korean mask dances but also mask dance performances from around the world. Visitors can also explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Hahoe Folk Village, gaining deeper insight into Korea’s rich history and culture.

Key Attractions:

  • Traditional Mask Dance Performances: Watch traditional Korean mask dances up close.
  • International Mask Dance Performances: Enjoy a diverse range of mask dances from various countries.
  • Hahoe Folk Village: Explore this historical village, offering a glimpse into Korea’s past.

Winter: Pyeongchang Daegwallyeong Snow Festival



Location: Daegwallyeong, Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do
Period: Late January to Early February

The Pyeongchang Daegwallyeong Snow Festival is one of Korea’s most famous winter festivals, held in the snowy highlands of Daegwallyeong. Visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities such as snow sledding, snow rafting, and ice fishing, all while surrounded by beautiful snowy landscapes. The festival also features impressive ice and snow sculptures, making it a popular destination for families.

Key Attractions:

  • Snow Sculpture Exhibition: Admire beautifully crafted snow and ice sculptures.
  • Snow Sledding: Fun for all ages, the festival offers sledding activities on well-maintained slopes.
  • Snow Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on snow-covered hills.


South Korea is a country where each season is celebrated with unique festivals that highlight the beauty and culture of the region. From the pink blossoms of spring to the icy wonderlands of winter, these festivals offer unforgettable experiences that showcase the diversity of Korean culture. This blog post has introduced some of the must-visit seasonal festivals in South Korea, helping you make the most of your trip.

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