From the beginning of March when the air is still cool, spring announces its arrival in Korea with a blanket of white and yellow blossoms spread across the nation. The warmer season sees a host of festivals take place in Korea where visitors can stroll among the blossoming spring flowers and see the country at its finest.

Gwangyang Maehwa Festival



Gwangyang Maehwa Festival
Period: March 8-17, 2019
Venue: 55, Jimak1-gil, Daab-myeon, Gwangyang-si, Jeollanam-do (전라남도 광양시 다압면 지막1길 55)

Gwangyang Maehwa Festival is one of the first destinations in Jeollanam-do to greet spring. During this time, the flower-lined lanes throughout Maehwa Village resemble the flow of the Seomjingang River and the apricot blossoms fill the festival grounds with their sweet scent. After crossing the beautiful Maehwagyo Bridge, take a seat in the shade of one of the trees lining the road. The festival also offers a variety of delicious treats, including mussels, chamgetang (spicy mitten crab stew), and dishes made with maesil (green plum).

Gurye Sansuyu Festival



Gurye Sansuyu Festival (Credit: Gurye-gun Office)
Period: March 16-24, 2019
Venue: 45, Sanggwan 1-gil, Sandong-myeon, Gurye-gun, Jeollanam-do (전라남도 구례군 산동면 상관1길 45)

Taking place in the hot springs resort area of Jirisan Mountain, visitors to Gurye Sansuyu Festival can enjoy a vibrant taste of spring with the yellow sansuyu (cornelian cherry) flowers. The festival theme is “Finding Everlasting Love” and the schedule includes performances and fireworks, as well as hands-on experiences. Don’t forget to try the foods and drinks made with sansuyu.