Unique Korean Festivals and Holidays: A Guide for Expats
Korea is a country rich in culture and tradition, with festivals and holidays that offer an unforgettable glimpse into its heritage. From time-honored holidays like Seollal to quirky modern festivals like the Boryeong Mud Festival, expats living in Korea have plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in local customs and celebrations. Here’s a guide to some of Korea’s most unique festivals and holidays that you won’t want to miss.
1. Seollal (Korean Lunar New Year)
Seollal is one of the most important holidays in Korea, marking the start of the Lunar New Year. Families come together to pay respect to their ancestors through rituals like charye (ancestral rites) and to enjoy traditional foods such as tteokguk (rice cake soup). It’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and spending time with loved ones.
Date: Typically in January or February, depending on the lunar calendar.
JournEASE Tip: Plan ahead for Seollal, as many businesses close during the holiday. If you're invited to a Korean friend’s home, bring a thoughtful gift to show your appreciation.
2. Chuseok (Korean Harvest Festival)
Often compared to Thanksgiving, Chuseok is another major holiday where families gather to celebrate the harvest and honor their ancestors. Koreans prepare special dishes like songpyeon (rice cakes) and visit ancestral graves to offer food and drink as part of their respect.
Date: Usually in September or October.
JournEASE Tip: Chuseok is one of the busiest travel times in Korea, so plan your travel early if you want to explore the countryside or attend one of the many Chuseok-themed festivals.
3. Boryeong Mud Festival
The Boryeong Mud Festival is one of Korea’s most popular modern festivals, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Held on Daecheon Beach, the festival is famous for its mud-based activities, including mud wrestling, mud sliding, and even a mud prison! The event originally started to promote the skincare benefits of Boryeong’s mineral-rich mud, but it has since become an international party.
Date: Every July.
Location: Daecheon Beach, Boryeong.
JournEASE Tip: Wear old clothes and be ready to get dirty! The festival also offers concerts, fireworks, and nighttime mud parties.
4. Busan Fireworks Festival
The Busan Fireworks Festival is an annual event held on Gwangalli Beach, showcasing one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Korea. The show is synchronized with music, creating a mesmerizing experience that draws massive crowds from all over the country.
Date: Typically in October or November.
Location: Gwangalli Beach, Busan.
JournEASE Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, and bring a blanket or portable chairs for comfort. Local restaurants also offer reserved seating with great views of the fireworks.
5. Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe)
Held in honor of Buddha’s birthday, the Lotus Lantern Festival is a vibrant celebration of Korea’s Buddhist culture. Streets in central Seoul are illuminated with colorful lanterns, and there’s a grand parade featuring thousands of people carrying lanterns shaped like dragons, lotus flowers, and other traditional symbols.
Date: Typically in May, around Buddha’s birthday.
Location: Seoul (mainly around Jogyesa Temple).
JournEASE Tip: Participate in the festival by making your own lantern and joining the parade. It’s a beautiful experience and a great way to connect with local traditions.
6. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
If you’re in Korea during spring, you won’t want to miss the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. Held in the coastal city of Jinhae, this festival celebrates the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms, with streets, parks, and even train tracks lined with stunning pink blooms. It’s one of the most picturesque events in Korea.
Date: Late March to early April.
Location: Jinhae, Changwon.
JournEASE Tip: Take the famous Romance Bridge walk for the best photo opportunities. Be prepared for crowds, but the scenery is worth it!
7. Jeju Fire Festival
The Jeju Fire Festival is a unique event that celebrates the island’s agricultural heritage. Historically, fires were set on fields to prepare for the new farming season. Today, the festival is a large-scale event with bonfires, firework displays, and traditional performances.
Date: March.
Location: Jeju Island.
JournEASE Tip: If you’re visiting Jeju during this time, take the opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty, including its beaches and volcanic landscapes.
8. Gwangju Biennale
For art lovers, the Gwangju Biennale is a must-see. This international contemporary art festival features exhibitions from artists all over the world, making it one of the most important cultural events in Korea. The festival addresses global issues through various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and multimedia installations.
Date: Every two years, from September to November.
Location: Gwangju.
JournEASE Tip: Take a full day to explore the various exhibits, and make time to visit the Gwangju National Museum and May 18th Memorial Park while you’re there.
How JournEASE Can Help You Experience Korean Festivals
Navigating Korean festivals can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the language or local customs. JournEASE is here to help you plan your festival experience, from securing tickets to arranging transportation and accommodation. Our team can provide bilingual assistance to ensure you don’t miss out on any of Korea’s amazing cultural events.
Ready to Dive into Korea’s Festival Scene?
Explore more about Korea’s unique festivals and holidays on our JournEASE blog, and let JournEASE help you make the most of your time in Korea!