As in most other countries too March brings the spring to South Korea! People spend more time outside, the weather gets a bit warmer and most importantly: The Spring Blossom Season starts! Visiting Korea in March is always a good idea and even if you might be a bit early for cherry blossom, there are other amazing things and flowers to see during that time.
How is March in South Korea?
Spring is here! And you can definitely feel this when march is sneaking around the corner. It’s slowly getting a bit warmer, people start spending more time outside and the country prepares for the spring flowers and cultural festivals coming in March and April!
How’s the weather in March?
Weather in Seoul during March can be quite pleasant as it marks the transition from winter to spring. Typically, temperatures range from around 1°C (34°F) to 11°C (52°F). However, it’s worth noting that March can still have some pretty cold days, especially in the early part of the month, so I recommend to pack layers and be prepared for varying conditions. Seoul and other central areas tend to be a bit colder, while southern regions, such as Busan or Jeju Island, are already taking big steps to a warm spring weather.
With an average of 4 rain days in march you don’t have to carry around an umbrella the whole time, but better to check the weather forecast (or see if Koreans carry an umbrella, as they are always prepared :D).
Another thing you should keep in mind is that with warmer temperatures and sunny days the fine dust pollution usually also gets worse. I highly recommend checking the “AQI” daily and if you see a red number better plan some indoor activities or wear a mask!
Will there be Cherry Blossom in March?
March usually marks the beginning of Cherry Blossom season in South Korea. In Seoul you can usually see Cherry Blossom in early April, but other areas in the South of the Korean Peninsula start much earlier in Mid March. When exactly the Cherry Trees start to bloom depends on a lot of things, especially the temperatures during winter and how quickly it gets warmer in march.
Find more in my Korea Cherry Blossom Guide!
↓ Get it for 5$ when using the code CHERRY25 ↓
What should I bring to Korea?
Now, onto the important stuff – what to pack. Even though it’s slowly getting warmer, I would still recommend to bring multiple layers. Especially in the evenings and nights Korean weather still can be really chilly!
I also always recommend to comfortable footwear, a portable battery and – if you need – a travel pharmacy from your home country as Korean medication hits quite different 😀
Are there public holidays in March?
Yes, every year on March 1st South Korea celebrates the 삼일절 [Samiljeol] – the Independence Movement Day! In 1919 the Korean people started to declare their country’s independence from Japan. This Independence Movement spread to the rest of the country and led to the establishment of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea – that we know today.
While there are some parades, concerts or exhibitions to commemorate this day, the main event is the Reading of Korea’s Declaration of Independence from 1919 in Seoul’s Pagoda Park. You can also see the Korean flag – called 태극기 [Taegeukgi] – everywhere!
March 1st is a so called red day, means it’s a public holiday, but still most businesses and restaurants will be open normally.
General South Korea Travel Guide
In this South Korea Guide, I cover everything you need to know for an amazing South Korea trip (not related to a specific month) from Basic Information about the country, weather all around the year, Visa and Entry Requirements, best Korean SIM Cards, Transportation, Must Visit Spots and Recommended Activities in Korea.
What to do in Korea in March?
The interesting things about traveling to South Korea in March is that – depending on when you’re going – you can experience winter and spring 😀 While Korea’s North is usually colder than the South the first March weekend can still be cold enough to go skiing or to see some winter events close to Seoul, while the Spring starts showing its blooming flowers in the South already in mid march! Find the best things to do in March 2024 here:
Enjoy the last days of Winter
The first days of march could still be cold enough to offer some great winter vibes. There are many different tours still available in early march, but keep in mind, that the snow quality is mostly likely already not the best anymore. Hear a few options for organized group tours for early march:
Attend Korea’s First Spring Festivals
When leaving the busy city of Seoul you can already see a lot of spring blossom and join special festivals that only happen during this time of the year! Find some of the most popular festivals here:
Gwangyang Maehwa Festival
March 8 – 17, 2024
Every Spring the Seomjin Village in the outskirts of Jirisan Mountain gets covered in an endless number of blooming plum trees. White and pink Maehwa Trees on a hill, traditional Korean Houses and a river between mountains promise a beautiful trip.
Gurye Sansuyu Festival
March 9 – 17, 2024
The fruit and the bright yellow-colored flower of this special type of dogwood tree means immortality and it’s used to make medicine or tea. During the festival you can see traditional music and dance performances, experience programs, and see fireworks.
Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival
December 1, 2023 – March 17, 2024
Korea’s first light festival combining the Garden’s natural surroundings with environmental friendly LED lights. This Festival is held yearly from December to March and covers 330,000 square meters.
Gyeonggi’s Strawberry Festivals
Every Thursday & Sunday in March
March is Strawberry Season and the best area to do this is the Gyeonggi Province, located around Seoul. There are organized group tours to go Strawberry Picking and see Pocheon Art Valley.
Jindo Sea Parting Festival
March 11 – 13, 2024
Every year the sea between Jindo and another Island parts and a 2.8 kilometer “Miracle Road” appears. To witness this amazing phenomenon you have to get some special boots and cross the sea within an hour. A once in a lifetime experience!
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
March 25 – April 13, 2024
Together with Jeju Island, Jinhae is the first area to witness the Cherry Blossom! It is one of Korea’s most popular Spring Spots and there are some special tours from Busan.
NomadHer’s Women’s Day Festival
March 23, 2024
NomadHer is an originally Korean Company that connects female solo travelers all over the world in their app. They will host a Women’s Day Festival and other amazing
Daegu E-World Cherry Blossom Picnic
March 25 – April 7, 2024
The best Cherry Blossom Spot in Daegu is the Amusement Park “E-World”. There is a guided tour from Busan, but you can of course also just take the KTX to visit Daegu. Once you’re there don’t miss to go up 83 Tower to see the cherry trees from above!
Jeju Cherry Blossom & Canola Festivals
usually in March
During March you can see Jeju Island covered with yellow canola flowers and starting mid of march the cherry trees will start blooming too. Bets season to visit the volcanic island!
Jeju Fire Festival
Not happening in 2024 !!
Jeju’s Mayor announced, that the Jeju Fire Festival will be skipped in 2024 to prepare a fundamental shift focusing on values of ecology, environment, and local participation. It might be that some parts of the festival will happen but as the main event (the big fire at the Oreum) will not happen again and they did not come up with something else yet, I would personally wait for 2025. Still Jeju Island is worth a visit in March!
Explore other cities
Embarking on a day trip from Seoul is a fantastic way to explore South Korea’s diverse landscapes and historical sites.
A visit to the Korean Folk Village and Suwon, just an hour away from Seoul, allows you to experience the Korean Folk Village and stroll along the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon.
For a more solemn experience, consider a visit to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), which takes approximately two hours to reach.
Finally, you can have a day trip to Jeonju and its famous Hanok Village. The area around the city is known for its picturesque landscapes especially during winter.
See the city from above
Perched atop Namsan Mountain in the heart of the city you can find the N Seoul Tower – often simply called Namsan Tower. Not only does it provide breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul’s sprawling cityscape, but it also offers cultural performances every day at 3 PM and has some great photospots like the lock filled walls of the viewing platform. You can buy tickets for the N Seoul tower’s observatory >here.
Another great place for awesome city views is the Lotte Tower’s Seoul Sky Observatory, located in the Jamsil district. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits before ascending to the rooftop observatory or even book the Sky Bridge Tour to have a walk outside on 555m height. Tickets for the Observatory can be booked in advance >here.
I can also recommend you to have a walk around the Seokchon Lakes and walk to the Lotte World Castle, which you actually can see without going into the amusement park itself.
Have a Selfcare-Day
Combine relaxation and cultural immersion by visiting a Jjimjilbang (찜질방) – a traditional Korean bathhouse. Upon entering, you’re enveloped in a world of soothing saunas, hot baths, and special treatments. The gentle heat of the Korean saunas, ranging from intense to mild, helps release tension and detoxify the body. After a leisurely soak in therapeutic mineral baths, you can indulge in a Korean body scrub that leaves your skin feeling soft and revitalized. Alternatively you can get a massage or one of Korea’s famous skin treatments in one of the great facilities below. This self-care day in Korea allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a wellness oasis steeped in Korean tradition.
Watch Performances
The “Nanta Cooking Show” and “Painter’s Show” are two captivating performances in Seoul. “Nanta” is a comedy combining cooking and drumming, while “Painters Show” blends live painting, multimedia art, and humor. Both shows offer unique, interactive experiences combined with some Korean cultural insights that entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making them must-see attractions in Seoul.
You can also see the Musical “Cats” in Seoul at the moment until March 12th 2024.
Find tickets for the Painter’s Show >here.
Find tickets for Nanta Cooking Show >here.
Find tickets for the Cats Musical >here.
Take a cooking class
Korean cooking classes provide a hands-on experience in preparing traditional Seollal dishes like colorful rice cakes, Korea’s National dish Kimchi, or a whole set of meals like Bulgogi (marinated grilled meat) or Korean stews. Guided by expert instructors, participants not only learn the secrets of these time-honored recipes but also gain insight into the significance of each dish in Korean Cuisine. It’s a delightful opportunity to connect with the essence of Korean traditions and share in the joy of creating and savoring these delectable treats with loved ones.
Craft your own souvenirs
Instead of buying souvenirs I can highly recommend to try one of many special activities and experiences in South Korea. It’s not just great to make a very personal gift for yourself or your loved ones at home, but it’s also a perfect way to learn more about Korean Culture and connect with locals. You can usually book them in English,
Mother of Pearl
Make accessories with the Korean traditional Najeon Technique!
Perfume Making
Make your own Perfume step by step with English guidance!
Stone Stamp
Make your own traditional Korean stone stamp that was used to sign contracts!
Leather Goods
Make yourself a wallet, small glasses case or a leather hand bag!
Wooden Rings
Special rings made of wood for couples, solo travelers or friends!
Traditional Dyeing
Dye a scarf or tote bag with the traditional Jjokbit Color.
Find more in my FREE Experience Guide ↓
Traveling to South Korea in March means you should prepare for all different kinds of weather and events. From Snowy Winter Festivals to the first Cherry Blossom or Spring events mostly in the South of the Country end of March – there are many things to explore!
Will you visit Korea in March? Let us know your tips in the comments!
