Spring in Korea, known as "봄" (bom), is eagerly awaited by many. During this period, snow begins to melt, flowers bloom, and the weather becomes warm again after a long winter.
Korean people often wear hanbok, their traditional attire, to celebrate spring, and they also enjoy seasonal foods like flower-shaped rice cakes (꽃빵 or kkotppang) and traditional drinks. Here are 10 spring traditions commonly observed in Korea.
1. Sakura Blossom Festival
The Sakura Blossom Festival in Korea celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms, which symbolize spring. This festival is held at various locations across Korea, such as city parks, lakes, and rural areas known for their beautiful cherry blossoms.
2. Park Picnics
As parks are filled with blooming flowers, many Koreans relax there, bringing along food, drinks, and mats, enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty. Picnicking is often done with family or friends, creating enjoyable moments under the spring sun.
3. Wearing Hanbok
Many Koreans choose to wear traditional Hanbok attire during spring, especially when attending special events like holidays or flower festivals. Wearing Hanbok is not only a way to honor their cultural heritage but also to celebrate the arrival of the beautiful and pleasant season.
4. Spring Cleaning
In Korea, there is a tradition of cleaning the house in spring. They clean their homes thoroughly, including dust and dirt accumulated during the winter. Additionally, Koreans often do minor repairs and renovations to freshen up their homes for the bright spring season.
5. Holiday Celebrations
Spring coincides with several national holidays in Korea, such as Buddha's Birthday (Seokga tansinil) and Children's Day (Eorininal). People usually spend time with family and friends during these holidays.
6. Welcoming Seollal (Lunar New Year)
Seollal, also known as the Korean Lunar New Year, is one of the most important celebrations in Korea, celebrated at the beginning of spring. This tradition is often accompanied by special ceremonies like Charye (ancestral food offerings) and Sebae (respecting elders with money and well wishes).
7. Enjoying Rape Blossom Views
In addition to cherry blossoms, spring is marked by the bright yellow blooms of rape blossoms. Many people visit rural areas to enjoy the beautiful views of fields filled with yellow rape blossoms.
8. Fountain Festivals
With the arrival of spring, fountain festivals are often held in parks and other public areas in Korea. These festivals feature beautiful fountain shows accompanied by music, lights, and dance.
9. Arts and Culture Performances
Many arts and cultural performances take place during spring in Korea. These events not only attract domestic and international tourists but also strengthen social and cultural ties among Koreans themselves.
10. Children's Day Celebration
During spring in Korea, there's a tradition of celebrating Children's Day, known as "어린이날" (eorininal) in Korean, which falls on May 5th every year. On this day, children are often given gifts like toys or new clothes, and various special events are held in schools, parks, and public places to celebrate the happiness and joy of children.
Spring in Korea is eagerly anticipated by many due to the arrival of warm weather after a long winter, as well as the blooming of flowers. The various traditions during spring add to the charm of Korean culture.
