Seoul Cherry Blossom Season Kicks Off With Vibrant Festivals

Seoul is blossoming with excitement as cherry blossoms officially bloom, marking the onset of spring festivities across the city. On April 4, 2025, the cherry blossoms burst into bloom, three days later than last year, ushering in a season of vibrant celebrations and cultural events.

The highly anticipated Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is set to take place from April 8 to April 12, 2025. This annual event is a highlight for both locals and tourists, showcasing the stunning cherry blossom trees along Yunjun-ro, one of Seoul's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. To ensure pedestrian safety during the festival, traffic will be restricted starting at 12:00 PM on April 6, covering a designated area from the southern intersection of Seogang Bridge to the National Assembly and Yeouido Hangang Park.

In addition to the Yeouido festivities, other districts in Seoul are also embracing the cherry blossom season with various events. The Lake Cherry Blossom Festival in Songpa-gu runs until April 6, featuring scenic lighting installations along the Seokchon Lake promenade. This initiative, led by National Assembly member Park Jung-hoon in collaboration with Lotte Moolsan, includes 383 lights along a 300-meter stretch, allowing visitors to enjoy the blossoms even after sunset. Park emphasized the importance of this project, stating, "The cherry blossom festival is crowded, and it is difficult to see the blossoms well at night. I hope Seokchon Lake becomes a famous night cherry blossom viewing spot."

Moreover, the festival will include a range of cultural programs, such as busking performances by local artists, a cherry blossom fashion week, and a media art exhibition. On April 6, the 'Cherry Blossom Full Bloom Concert' will feature performances by the pop opera group Bollare and K-pop singer R.E.A.L, promising an entertaining experience for attendees.

Meanwhile, in Seocho-gu, the Yangjaecheon Cherry Blossom Lantern Festival is ongoing until April 27, 2025. This event features 96 scenic lights installed along a 330-meter section from Millimiri Bridge to Yeongdong 3 Bridge, enhancing the beauty of the cherry blossoms at night. The festival aims to create a unique atmosphere with two art pieces displayed under the theme 'Light that Embraces Isolation,' showcasing delicate branches and ornaments that sparkle in the sunlight and glow beautifully at night.

Gangnam District Mayor Cho Sung-myung expressed his excitement about the festival, stating, "With the cherry blossoms in full bloom, the warm lights and artistic installations will make Yangjaecheon an even more special place this spring. We will continue to develop Yangjaecheon into a space where everyone can comfortably enjoy the beauty of the seasons."

As celebrations unfold across the city, the Seoul Metropolitan Government anticipates that up to 800,000 people will visit Yunjun-ro during the cherry blossom season. To manage the influx of visitors, the city has established a 'Spring Regional Festival Special Measures Period' and will utilize a crowd-sensing system to enhance safety and ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

In Geumcheon-gu, the Anyangcheon embankment road has also been illuminated with night lighting, allowing residents and visitors to appreciate the beauty of cherry blossoms in a different light. With these initiatives, Seoul is not only celebrating the arrival of spring but also creating memorable experiences for its citizens and guests.

The cherry blossom season in Seoul offers a beautiful backdrop for various cultural events, attracting people from all walks of life. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely stroll under the blossoms or participating in lively performances, the city is alive with the spirit of spring.

As the cherry blossoms continue to bloom, residents and tourists alike are encouraged to explore the different festivities and appreciate the beauty of nature that surrounds them. With innovative lighting projects and artistic displays, Seoul is transforming its cherry blossom viewing spots into enchanting experiences that can be enjoyed day and night.