Spring in Seoul is nothing short of magical. The city shakes off the winter chill, cherry blossoms paint the streets pink, and the scent of delicious seasonal treats fills the air. If you have never experienced the charm of a 서울의 봄 (seo-ul-ui bom)—Seoul’s spring, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no better way to experience this vibrant season than through the 3B’s of a Seoulful Spring: Blooms, Bites, and Beyond!
1. Blooms: Walking Through a Fairytale
Spring in Seoul is basically Mother Nature showing off. 꽃놀이 (kkot-nor-i), or ‘flower viewing’ isn’t just an activity, it’s a beloved spring tradition. From late March to mid-April, the entire city is dressed in 벚꽃 (beot-kkot), the delicate pink and white cherry blossoms, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a K-drama. Here are the best places to see Cherry Blossoms in Seoul:
여의도 윤중로 벚꽃길 (Yeo-ui-do Yun-jung-ro Beot-kkot-gil) “Yeouido Cherry blossom street”
Kick start your ‘flower viewing’ journey with the stunning cherry blossom street, where cherry blossom trees create a dreamy tunnel perfect for the 인생샷 (in-saeng-syat)—that perfect Instagram-worthy shot.
서울숲 (Seo-ul-soop) “Seoul Forest”
If you prefer a more peaceful vibe, 서울숲 (seo-ul-soop), Seoul Forest offers a less crowded but equally stunning experience. Perfect spot to enjoy a spring picnic with your loved ones.
남산공원 (Nam-san-gong-won) “Namsan Park”
For a breathtaking skyline, visit 남산공원 (nam-san-gong-won), where cherry blossoms frame panoramic views of Seoul with the iconic N Seoul Tower in the background—truly unbeatable!
2. Bites: Tasting the Flavors of Spring
Now that we’ve fed our eyes, let’s feed our stomachs! Spring in Korea brings a variety of 제철 음식 (je-cheol eum-shik)— seasonal foods that captures the freshness of the season.
봄나물 비빔밥 (Bom-na-mul Bi-bim-bap) “Seasonal Bibimbap”
First up, 봄나물 비빔밥 (bom-na-mul bi-bim-bap)—a special version of bibimbap made with fresh spring vegetables and herbs like 냉이 (naeng-i), shepherd’s purse and 달래 (dal-lae), wild chives. The fresh, slightly bitter taste is balanced with gochujang sauce, making it the perfect healthy yet flavorful dish.
딸기 찹쌀떡 (Ttal-gi Chap-ssal-tteok) “Strawberry Mochi”
For street food lovers, spring is also 딸기 시즌 (ttal-gi si-jeun), ‘strawberry season’! You’ll find the vendors selling the soft, chewy mochi filled with sweet strawberries at traditional markets along with 생딸기 우유 (saeng-ttal-gi ou-yu), fresh strawberry milk at trendy cafes.
벚꽃 라떼 (Beot-kkot La-tte) “Cherry Blossom Latte”
And let’s not forget 벚꽃 라떼 (beot-kkot la-tte) cherry blossom latte, a pink and floral-flavored drink that screams spring aesthetic.
3. Beyond: Experiencing Seoul in Full Bloom
Spring in Seoul is also about soaking in the city’s vibrant energy! There is a korean phrase “봄을 타다” (bom-eul ta-da) – “riding the spring” which captures that restless excitement and desire to get out and enjoy the season. Here are some must-try spring activities in Seoul!
한강 피크닉 (Han-gang Pi-keu-nik) “Han River Picnic”
A must-try activity is 한강 피크닉 (han-gang pi-keu-nik) or the Han-river side picnic. Grab a mat, 치맥 (chi-maek) or chicken and beer, to soak in the sunshine. From friends to solo picnickers, everyone is out enjoying the warm 봄바람 (bom-ba-ram) or the warm breeze. For the full local experience, rent a 따릉이 자전거 타기 (tta-reung-i ja-jeon-geo ta-gi), Seoul’s public bikes, and cycle along the cherry blossom-lined paths.
경복궁 한복 체험 (Gyeong-bok-gung Han-bok Chae-heom) “Gyeongbok Palace Hanbok Experience”
For something more traditional, go for the 경복궁 한복 체험 (gyeong-bok-gung han-bok chae-heom) or the ‘Gyeongbokgung Hanbok experience’ where they let you rent a 한복 (han-bok), the traditional Korean attire and explore the grand palace for free!
벚꽃 축제 (Beot-kkot Chuk-je) “Cherry blossom Festivals”
Lastly, for music and culture lovers, don’t miss the amazing 벚꽃 축제 (beot-kkot chuk-je) or cherry blossom festivals. Popular spots like Seokchon Lake and Jinhae feature live performances, food stalls, and the lively energy of Seoul in full spring bloom.
From breathtaking cherry blossoms to seasonal delicacies and exciting outdoor activities, Seoul in spring is an experience like no other. So, are you ready to walk the flower paths, savor the season, and ride the spring breeze? Because Seoul is calling, and trust us, you don’t want to miss it!
그럼 서울에서 봄날을 즐겨보세요! (keu-reom seo-ul-e-seo bom-nar-eul jeul-gyeo-bo-se-yo!) Enjoy the spring days in Seoul!
Written by: Ariba
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