"Where Can You Chase Late Cherry Blossoms in South Korea?"

Spring in South Korea is like a fairytale in motion — crisp air, budding flowers, and above all, the mesmerizing cherry blossoms that cloak the country in soft hues of pink and white. Like many dreamers, I, Farin Khatoon, was enchanted by the idea of strolling under cherry blossom tunnels, the petals falling like delicate snow. But what happens if you’re visiting South Korea in mid-May, slightly past the usual bloom period? Don't worry — there’s still hope for catching the tail-end of this magical season!

🌸 Typical Cherry Blossom Season Across South Korea

Cherry blossom season in Korea is fleeting but unforgettable. Here's a general timeline:

• Jeju Island – Late March

• Busan & Gyeongju – Early April

• Seoul & Incheon – Early to Mid-April

• Gangwon Province (Mountainous Areas) – Mid to Late April

But by the second week of May, cherry blossoms have typically bid farewell in most regions. So, where should a blossom-chaser like me go?

🌸 Where to Find Late Blooming Cherry Blossoms in Mid-May

Luckily, Korea’s diverse geography allows for a few hidden gems where cherry blossoms bloom later than usual due to colder climates and higher elevations.

1. Seoraksan National Park, Gangwon-do

In the heart of Gangwon Province lies Seoraksan, known for its dramatic peaks and crisp mountain air. Here, you might catch wild cherry trees still in bloom even in early to mid-May, especially in shaded or higher-altitude areas. Hiking while surrounded by pink and white petals? Yes, please.

2. Odaesan & Taebaek Regions

Located at high altitudes, Odaesan National Park and Taebaek are often a few weeks behind the rest of the country in terms of seasonal change. A visit here in May may still grant you those coveted cherry blossom views — albeit more subtle and scattered among lush green growth.

3. Cheorwon County (Near the DMZ)

Bordering North Korea, Cheorwon experiences longer winters and late springs. While this region may not be famous for its cherry blossoms, its climate allows for delayed blooming. Just be mindful of accessibility and border security zones.

🌿 More May Magic: Other Blooms You’ll Love

Even if cherry blossoms are elusive by mid-May, South Korea’s spring beauty doesn’t stop. During this time, other flowers take center stage:

• Azaleas & Rhododendrons – Seen across hillsides and temples

• Wisteria & Peonies – Common in palace gardens like Changdeokgung in Seoul

• Canola Flowers – Especially vibrant in Jeju’s green fields

• Iris & Lotus Blooms – Starting to appear in water gardens

If you're like me and appreciate all things floral, you'll fall in love with Korea’s May gardens and countryside scenes — they're truly a painter’s palette of color.

🌸 A Few Travel Tips from Farin Khatoon

• Check bloom forecasts: Websites like VisitKorea update seasonal bloom maps.

• Dress in layers: Even in May, mornings in mountainous areas can be chilly.

• Stay off the beaten path: Sometimes, the lesser-known parks offer the most peaceful blossom experiences.

🌸 Final Thoughts

While mid-May isn’t peak cherry blossom season in Korea, that doesn’t mean your dream of seeing blossoms has to fade. As I discovered, there’s always beauty if you know where to look — in mountain trails, rural towns, or even in unexpected blooms that arrive when others are gone.

Every petal has its time, and so do we. If you ever find yourself in South Korea in May, don’t chase the season — embrace the moment. You might just stumble upon a patch of pink whispering, “You’re right on time.”

With love and wanderlust,

Farin Khatoon