When do cherry blossoms bloom in Korea, and where are the best places to see them?

Cherry blossom season in Korea typically runs from late March in the south to mid-April in Seoul, with peak bloom lasting only about 7 to 10 days. Jeju and Busan see the earliest blooms around March 25, while Seoul usually peaks between April 5 and 12. The Korea Meteorological Administration publishes a daily forecast map (개화 지도) starting in early March that's worth checking before booking trips.

For the best spots, Yeouido Park and the road around the National Assembly in Seoul host the famous Yeouido Spring Flower Festival with about 1,800 trees lining a 5km stretch. Jinhae in Gyeongsangnam-do is the most legendary destination, with the Gyeonghwa train station and Yeojwacheon Stream drawing huge crowds during the Gunhangje Festival in early April. Other strong picks include Seokchon Lake in Songpa, the Hangang riverside near Banpo Bridge, Bomun Lake in Gyeongju, and Seoul Forest. Go on weekday mornings if possible, since weekends get extremely crowded.