While the 2018 Winter Olympics opened the world’s eyes to the beauty of South Korea, tourism was on the rise prior to the Games.
The number of inbound tourists from nine Southeast Asia countries alone — including Taiwan, Thailand, Hong Kong and Singapore — increased from 2 to 3 million, 2015–2017.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, visitors are drawn to destinations closely related to the Hallyu cultural phenomenon, such as Chuncheon and Namiseom, as well as more well-known destinations like Myeongdong.
The destination also hosts great events throughout the year. Here are some worth adding to your calendar if your spring travel itinerary includes South Korea.
The Lighting Festival at The Garden of Morning Calm is the largest of its kind in Korea, during which more than 30,000 lights illuminate several impressive gardens. The festival runs through March 25, so try to catch it before it ends.
For more light-filled entertainment, Aiins World, a popular miniature theme park, hosts its second season of World Nightview Fantasy Lighting Festival through Dec. 31, and Ansan Starlight Village Photo Land celebrates the natural world with more than 200 impressive displays during the Animal & Heart Village Light Festival, through Jan. 31, 2019.
Welcome spring and its floral bounties at the Jeju Hueree Apricot Festival, Gurye Sansuyu Festival and Gwangyang International Maehwa Festival, all through March 25; the Everland Tulip Festival, through April 29; and the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival to witness the cherry blossoms (April 1–10).
The destination also hosts several popular food and folk festivals in the coming months, including the Nonsan Strawberry Festival (April 4–8), Gijisi Juldarigi Festival (April 12–15) and the Goryeong Daegaya Experience Festival (April 12–15).
This is only a sampling. Visit the South Korea tourism website for a full calendar of events.
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