May is a great time to visit South Korea, with comfortable temperatures and a variety of exciting events taking place throughout the country. From traditional cultural festivals to modern pop culture events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we will explore some of the top tourist events to check out in South Korea this May.
1. Lotus Lantern Festival
The Lotus Lantern Festival is one of the most important traditional Buddhist festivals in South Korea, celebrating the birth of Buddha. The festival takes place in May every year and features a variety of lantern-related events, such as lantern-making workshops, a lantern parade, and the lighting of the giant lantern at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul. The festival also includes traditional music and dance performances, as well as food stalls serving up delicious Korean cuisine.
2. Gwangju World Culture Kimchi Festival
The Gwangju World Culture Kimchi Festival is a celebration of Korea’s beloved national dish, kimchi. The festival takes place in Gwangju and features a kimchi-making competition, as well as various other events such as cultural performances, a kimchi market, and a kimchi-eating contest. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of kimchi, as well as sample a variety of different kimchi dishes from all over Korea.
3. Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival
If you’re a music lover, the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is not to be missed. This annual music festival takes place in Incheon and features a variety of local and international rock bands. The festival has been going strong since 2006 and has become one of the biggest music events in South Korea, attracting over 100,000 visitors each year.
4. Boseong Green Tea Festival
The Boseong Green Tea Festival is a celebration of Korea’s famous green tea, which is grown in the Boseong region of South Korea. The festival takes place in May and features a variety of tea-related events, such as tea ceremonies, tea-making workshops, and the opportunity to pick your own tea leaves. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the tea fields, which turn a vibrant green in the springtime.
5. Seoul Jazz Festival
The Seoul Jazz Festival is a must-visit event for jazz enthusiasts, featuring both local and international jazz musicians. The festival takes place in May and is held at the Seoul Olympic Park, an outdoor venue with plenty of space for music lovers to enjoy the music and atmosphere. Visitors can bring a picnic and enjoy the music in the sun, or sample some of the delicious food and drinks on offer at the festival.
One of the top events in South Korea in May is the Seoul Lantern Festival, which is held in the heart of the city. During this festival, thousands of colorful lanterns are lit up, creating a breathtaking display. The lanterns are designed to depict a wide variety of images, including famous landmarks, historical figures, and animals. The festival also includes various performances, cultural events, and street food stalls.
Another popular event in May is the Gwangju World Culture Kimchi Festival. This festival celebrates South Korea’s national dish, kimchi, and features a wide variety of kimchi-related events and activities. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of kimchi, watch traditional kimchi-making demonstrations, and sample a variety of different types of kimchi from all over the country.
In addition to these festivals, there are many other great places to visit in South Korea in May. For example, the famous Jeju Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush forests. The island is also home to a number of unique cultural sites, such as the Jeju Folk Village, which showcases traditional Korean architecture and customs.
Another must-visit destination in South Korea is the ancient city of Gyeongju, which is known for its numerous historic temples, palaces, and tombs. The city was once the capital of the Silla Kingdom, which ruled Korea from the 7th to the 9th centuries, and many of its historic sites date back to this period.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, South Korea has something to offer everyone in May. So why not plan a trip to this fascinating country and discover its many treasures for yourself?
