South Korea is in full bloom in April, one of the most popular months to visit. In early April, travel to Jinhae for the country's most famous cherry blossom festival, which brings in more than two million visitors annually. Later in the month, take in flowery landscapes while hiking or camping in South Korea's national parks. Cherry blossom season brings higher crowds and flight prices, but travelers will find the season's popularity is well deserved for its mild weather and unforgettable views.

Weather

Spring has fully arrived in South Korea, with mild temperatures averaging in the 50s and 60s (Fahrenheit). The weather can vary significantly this month, even within the span of a few hours. Be sure to pack layers, as short sleeves may be suitable on warmer days, but a jacket will likely be required in the evenings when temperatures can dip into the 40s (4°C-9°C). While April remains relatively dry, with an average monthly rainfall of 2.5 inches (65 mm), the chances of rain increase as the month progresses.

Visitors should be mindful of air quality this month as spring winds blow in soil particles from the Gobi Desert in China and Mongolia. The resulting yellow dust storms can cause allergy symptoms and respiratory issues, particularly when combined with city pollution. Many locals don masks on exceptionally smoggy days. 

Crowds & Costs

April is among the most popular months to visit South Korea, as balmy temperatures and abundant blooms draw tourists from across the globe. While prices and crowds may be higher than in the preceding months, there is a good reason: April visitors are rewarded with beautiful weather and views.

Expect large crowds at the country's most popular flower festivals at the beginning of the month. For example, the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival on the south coast hosts more than two million visitors annually throughout the 10-day event. Other popular spots for hiking and flower-chasing, including many of South Korea's national parks, also see an influx of visitors. Travelers should book accommodations early and shop for the best prices and availability. 

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Where to Go

In the first week of April, peak cherry blossom season begins in earnest. Visitors in early April will experience a country in full bloom, and flowers can be seen from the streets of Seoul to the shores of Jeju Island. No matter where you go, you're likely to glimpse the famous blooms, though if in Seoul, snap pics of the blooms framing historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and be sure to venture to Yeouido Park at the start of the month.

The most popular of South Korea's flower festivals is in the naval port city of Jinhae along the country's southern coast. Every year from the end of March to the beginning of April, millions of visitors flock to Jinhae to participate in the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival honoring the Korean War hero Admiral Yi Sun-Shin. Other well-known cherry blossom festivals occur in Jeju Island, Gyeongju, and Seokchan Lake. Dates for each festival vary yearly to align with peak blossoming conditions, so be sure to check for an official date announcement prior to booking travel. 

What to Do

April is an ideal month for adventure travelers. The mild weather makes outdoor activities, including hiking and camping, a popular choice for residents and tourists. Travel to one of South Korea's national parks, such as Jirisan National Park in the south, where you can enjoy spectacular views from South Korea's second-highest mountain and bask in the fragrant aroma of azaleas and dogwood flowers. Avid runners can uniquely experience cherry blossom season by signing up for the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon in the ancient city of Gyeongju in the country's southeast. 

While spring in South Korea is best known for its cherry blossoms, they are far from the only flowers to grace the Korean landscape. In mid-April, visit the Taean Tulip Festival on South Korea's west coast, where you can snap photos of vibrant tulip fields and enjoy carnival games, face painting, and a family-friendly animal farm. On Ganghwa Island in Incheon, the Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival paints the mountainside pink and purple with thousands of azaleas.

Visitors hoping to experience a different type of spring festival should add the Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeondeunghoe), celebrating the birth of Buddha, to their itinerary. Lotus Lantern Festival is celebrated across the country, but one of the largest celebrations takes place in Seoul. Streets are alighted with colorful lanterns, and thousands turn out for a nighttime parade through Seoul's Jongno District. 

Events in April

Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival, Jinhae. The largest cherry blossom festival in South Korea features thousands of cherry trees in peak bloom. The festival is held in honor of a famous Korean military hero, Admiral Yi Sun-Shin.

Yeondeunghoe, Seoul. The Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul celebrates the birth of Buddha in the fourth month of the lunar year with the hanging of colorful lanterns across the city and a lantern parade.

Taean Tulip Festival, Taean. This flower event wows visitors with fields of vibrant tulips, plenty of photo ops, and a light festival that takes place after dark. 

Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival, Ganghwa. The landscape erupts in pink azaleas during this springtime flower festival near Incheon, featuring an unforgettable hiking experience up Goryeosan mountain. 

Jindo Miracle Sea Road Festival, Jindo. In late April or early May, a natural phenomenon causes the Yellow Sea to drop 138 feet (42 m), leaving a walkable path between the islands of Jindo and Modo, where tourists gather to celebrate the "miracle" of the sea parting.

More Helpful Information

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South Korea in May
Best Time of Year to Visit South Korea
How Many Days to Spend in South Korea