How do I experience Korean festivals and cultural events but I never know what is happening and when?
I want to experience Korean festivals and cultural events but I never know what is happening and when. What are the major festivals throughout the year, and how do I find out about them?
Note: This is an editorial persona question created from common experiences of foreign residents in Korea.
1 Answer
Korea has a packed festival calendar, and once you know where to look you will never run out of things to do. In spring, cherry blossom festivals take over the country, with the Jinhae Gunhangje the most famous, plus the Yeouido blossoms in Seoul and tulip festivals like Taean. Early summer brings the Boryeong Mud Festival in July, a wild beach party with mud everywhere that is hugely popular with foreigners, along with various music festivals. Autumn is festival season at its best, with the Busan and Seoul international fireworks festivals, the Andong Mask Dance Festival, the Jinju Lantern Festival, and countless food and harvest festivals as the leaves turn. Winter centers on ice and snow festivals like Hwacheon's ice fishing, plus light and lantern displays.
To find out what is on, the best source is the official Korea Tourism Organization site, Visit Korea, which lists events in English by date and region, backed by their 1330 tourist helpline that answers in several languages any time of day. Platforms like Trazy and Klook bundle festival tickets and shuttle buses, and following Korea Tourism and local expat groups on Instagram and Facebook keeps upcoming events on your radar. Checking the Visit Korea calendar at the start of each season is the simplest way to plan ahead.