As if we need another reason to visit South Korea, cherry blossom season 2023 is fast approaching. As the muted hues of winter make way for the bright colours of spring, the cherry blossoms take centre stage. From Seoul to Jeju Island, nature bursts in pretty shades of pink, painting an enchanting backdrop to your Korean adventures.
Part of the allure of cherry blossoms is their short-lived nature. Soft pink petals appear one day, then fade away within one to two weeks. So, if you want to see the cherry trees in bloom, timing is everything. Here, we gather the best spots to see cherry blossoms in Korea in 2023, and the expected bloom dates based on the latest forecast by WeatherI.
Note: Keep in mind that expected flowering dates could still change due to fluctuating weather conditions. Plus, research shows that human-induced climate change has already resulted in extra-early blooms in the past. We will be updating this article with every South Korea cherry blossom forecast update.
Also read: Japan Cherry Blossom 2023 Forecast: When & Where to See Sakura
When & where to see cherry blossoms in Korea 2023
Make the most of the South Korea cherry blossom season in 2023 at these famous (and less-famous) destinations for seeing these gorgeous blooms.
1. Jeju Island
Where to view cherry blossoms in Jeju: Seogwipo Cherry Blossom Road, Jeonnong-ro Street, Jeju Sports Complex, Jeju National University, Wimi Village, Yerae-ro Road
When to view cherry blossoms in Jeju: 22 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
Also read: 10 Affordable Airbnb Homes & Vacation Rentals on Jeju Island
2. Jinhae
Where to view cherry blossoms in Jinhae: Yeojwacheon Stream, Gyeonghwa Station, Jinhae Jungwon Rotary Intersection (Jinhae Gunhanghe Festival), Jehwangsan Park
When to view cherry blossoms in Jinhae: 28 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
3. Busan
Where to view cherry blossoms in Busan: Dalmaji-gil Road, Oncheoncheon Stream Park, Samnak Ecological Park, Samik Beach Apartment
When to view cherry blossoms in Busan: 27 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
Also read: 21 Things Every Traveller Must Do in and Near Busan
4. Gyeongju
Where to view cherry blossoms in Gyeongju: Bomun Lake, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Gyerim Forest, Bomunjeong Pavilion
When to view cherry blossoms in Gyeongju: 31 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
5. Daegu
Where to view cherry blossoms in Daegu: Chimsanjeong Pavilion, Kkotbora Garden, Ayang Bridge, Suseong Lake, E-World, Yongyeonsa Temple
When to view cherry blossoms in Daegu: 26 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
6. Gwangju
Where to see cherry blossoms in Gwangju: Gwangju National Museum, Sajik Park
When to view cherry blossoms in Gwangju: 27 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
7. Jeonju
Where to view cherry blossoms in Jeonju: Wansan Park
When to view cherry blossoms in Jeonju: 27 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
Also read: 15 Underrated Places in South Korea That You Should Experience
8. Daejeon
Where to view cherry blossoms in Daejeon: KAIST University, Temi Park
When to view cherry blossoms in Daejeon: 31 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
9. Gangneung
Where to view cherry blossoms in Gangneung: Gyeongpo Lake
When to view cherry blossoms in Gangneung: 31 Mar 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
10. Seoul
Where to view cherry blossoms in Seoul: Yeouido Park, Namsan Seoul Tower, Changgyeonggung Palace, Seoul National Cemetery, Seokchon Lake, Seoul Children’s Grand Park, Seoul Forest
When to view cherry blossoms in Seoul: 3 Apr 2023 (estimated start of blooming period)
Also read: Seoul Cherry Blossom Season Guide: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip
Going to South Korea for cherry blossom season in 2023? Although these short-lived blooms are only around for a few weeks each year in Korea, cherry blossoms are definitely one of the spring 2023 highlights we can’t wait to experience. As you can see, you’ve got your pick of destinations for seeing the cherry blossoms in Korea this 2023. Let us know which of these places you’re most excited to visit this season!
Featured image credit: cozyta via Canva Pro