Spring is one of the best times to visit South Korea as visitors can witness the breathtaking scenes of cherry blossoms in full bloom. Here are five remarkable cherry blossom sightseeing spots around Seoul, complete with vivid reviews from international Dankookians (Students of Dankook University).

▲ Cherry Blossom Tree in Full Bloom and Lotte Tower (Photo from DKH)

Seokchon Lake

Every year during springtime, Seokchon Lake transforms into a breathtaking spectacle as cherry blossoms burst into full bloom. Dankook Herald (DKH) staff were treated to a visual feast as we strolled along the lake enjoying the beauty of the cherry blossoms reflecting in the calm waters. Situated near popular tourist attractions like Lotte World and Olympic Park, the lake is easily accessible, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city. We visited this place with Do Phuong Chi (Global Business Administration Major). While Chi found the spring weather a bit cooler than in her home country of Vietnam, the pleasant sunshine and gentle breeze created an overall delightful feeling. For Chi, the cherry blossoms were the true stars of the season, making spring stand out. She felt her visit to Seokchon Lake was particularly impressive thanks to the cherry blossom trees lining the lake, along with the accompanying spring festivals complete with bustling stalls selling local products and lively music performances. She highly recommended others visit Korea during springtime. She agreed that the weather was ideal, and the many beautiful places you can see would guarantee you picture-perfect memories.

▲ Path Lined with Cherry Blossom Trees under Namsan Tower (Photo from DKH)

Namsan Tower

Namsan Tower (Seoul N Tower) is another spectacular landmark in Seoul. The DKH recently celebrated the cherry blossom season there too. On the way up to the tower, the vibrant pink and white blooms lining the path created a joyful scene. Passing through the dining corner on the third floor of the tower and following the stairs to the observation deck at the top, we were able to enjoy a panoramic view of Seoul.

▲ Nguyen Thi Hai Anh - International Student in Dankook University Joining the Trip to Namsan Tower with The DKH (Photo from DKH)

Looking down at the scenery of Seoul in spring from the elevated deck, Nguyen Thi Hai Anh (Global Business Administration Major) described it as something out of a K-drama. It was the springtime beauty filled with cherry blossoms that Hai Anh loved the most about the trip to Namsan Tower. After enjoying the beautiful view of Seoul from the observatory, we followed the path down a road lined with blooming cherry blossom trees. Ms. Nguyen also found the bicycle riders at Namsan to be an interesting sight, as they rode past us heading downhill at such a flash speed.

▲ Various Outdoor Activities in Yangjae Citizen Forest (Photo from DKH)

Yangjae Citizen Forest

Yangjae Citizen Forest opened in 1986 and was touted as Seoul's largest man-made forest at the time. The DKH visited Yangjae Citizen Forest during the cherry blossom season to experience its vibe. Right after exiting the local subway station, a breathtaking sight of fully blooming cherry blossoms greeted us. The area was crowded with people excited to take in the beauty of the forest. The air was quite warm, and everyone seemed delighted with the scenes. As the wind blew, cherry blossom petals floated through the sky, making it feel like we were walking through a picturesque movie. The small lake, a central feature of the forest, was covered in cherry blossom petals, turning much of its surface white. While sitting under the shade of trees, DKH staff conducted a brief interview about springtime in Korea with Stephanie Halkin (Communication Design Major), who found the seasonal weather to be a refreshing change from her home country of Indonesia, which does not have four distinct seasons.

▲ People Enjoying the Picturesque Scene of Yangjae Citizen Forest (Photo from DKH)

Stephanie enjoyed seeing how people come alive during the spring, going for walks, taking pictures, and enjoying the weather with friends. For Stephanie, the most enjoyable part of visiting Yangjae Citizen Forest was simply being outdoors, enjoying the weather, admiring the cherry blossoms, and chatting with friends under the shade of the trees. If Stephanie could plan her perfect Korean spring day, it would include a picnic with friends. She would pack easy-to-carry Korean food like kimbap, and then relax with friends and listen to music, take pictures, chat, and play board games. She thought it was a lovely time to visit Korea, particularly for those who had never experienced spring before.

▲ People Lining up to Take Pictures of the Cherry Blossom Trees in Seoul Forest (Photo from DKH)

Seoul Forest

The DKH had a relaxing and fun experience viewing the cherry blossoms at Seoul Forest. We caught scenes of locals celebrating spring together with friends and families over a picnic under the pretty cherry blossom trees in the park. Besides the well-loved cherry blossoms, tulips were also in bloom at Seoul Forest.

▲ Nolan - International Student in Dankook University Joining the Trip to Seoul Forest with The DKH (Photo from DKH)

Nolan (Global Business Administration Major) found Seoul Forest to be a charming place to unwind during springtime in Korea. While the tulips had not yet reached peak bloom, he enjoyed the overall vibe of the park and witnessing the beauty of spring unfold around him. Spring in Korea offers a unique charm for Nolan, different from what he is used to back in France.

▲ Tulip in full bloom brought a vibrant scene to Seoul Forest. (Photo from DKH)

The constantly changing scenery, with each week bringing a new wave of blooms such as magnolias, cherry blossoms, and then tulips creates a sense of renewal and a constantly evolving landscape. Even a walk down the street becomes an immersive experience. Nolan noticed a couple of interesting Korean springtime traditions. One, of course, is the picnics under the cherry blossoms. Another is the emphasis on capturing the perfect photo. He found it amusing to see a long line of people waiting to take pictures at the giant picnic table in Seoul Forest when the natural beauty all around also offered so many photogenic opportunities. He recommended visiting Korea during spring as it is a great time to explore the country and even suggested going outside of Seoul to discover lesser-known places.

▲ Path Lined with Cherry Blossom Trees at Yeouido (Photo from DKH)

Yeouido

Yeouido is another popular spot to enjoy the cherry blossom trees in full bloom in Seoul. The DKH visited Yeouido for the spectacle. Beyond the beautiful flowers, there were many exciting things to enjoy. Many people, like Raphael Pappalardo, an exchange student from Germany, enjoyed the pleasant spring weather which was ideal for spending time outdoors. Raphael particularly enjoyed strolling under the cherry blossoms with his girlfriend, taking pictures, and soaking up the festive atmosphere. He found his experience even more enjoyable thanks to the various vendors readily serving delicious food and the availability of picnic mats. In the afternoon, as the sun began to set, families and friends rented bicycles to ride along the paths near the Han River, enjoying the pleasant spring breeze. The environment and weather were truly ideal for a perfect weekend escape.

▲ Cherry Blossom Trees in Full Bloom at Yeouido (Photo from DKH)

   If you are planning a springtime trip in Korea, aim to visit these stunning cherry blossom spots before the petals disappear. Even if you miss the peak bloom period, you will not feel disappointed. Spring in Korea unfolds in layers. As cherry blossoms fall from the trees, vibrant forsythias, azaleas, and other colorful blooms erupt, creating a new kind of magical scene. As the weather is perfect, the scenery is beautiful, and everyone is out enjoying the good vibes, the DKH hopes international Dankookians will have a great time enjoying Korea's springtime.

Thao, Erdenejargal, 이동욱, 이은서  dankookherald@gmail.com