Hello everyone! As spring approaches in Korea, it’s time to get ready for one of Korea’s most beautiful festivals – the Gwangyang Maehwa Festival. Today, I’ll introduce you to this special event where you can experience the beauty and traditions of Korea in full bloom.
1. What is Maehwa
The “maehwa” at the Gwangyang Maehwa Festival is referred to as the ‘plum blossom.’ In Korean, it’s called “매화.” These flowers, blooming in spring, are one of Korea’s representative blossoms. Plum blossoms come in various colors like white, pink, and light green, captivating many with their beauty. At first glance, they may resemble cherry blossoms.
2. Gwangyang Maehwa Festival Venue
The Gwangyang Maehwa Festival is held in various parks and gardens across Gwangyang City, Jeollanam-do. The main festival takes place at Gwangyang Maehwa Village, located at 55 Jimag 1-gil, Daap-myeon, Gwangyang-si, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. 🗺️ 대한민국 전라남도 광양시 다압면 지막1길 55
3. Gwangyang Maehwa Festival Period
The Gwangyang Maehwa Festival in 2024 will be held from March 8th to March 17th.
4. Gwangyang Maehwa Festival Key Events
- Gwangyang City Choir/Traditional Music Ensemble Performance
- Plum Harvesting Event
- Making Plum Highballs
- Cruising on the Seomjin River
- Barefoot Walking on the Seomjin River
- Making Plum Rice Balls
- Capturing My Life Shot by Professional Photographers
- Stay for 1 Night 2 Days (2 Nights 3 Days) at Gwangyang Maehwa Village
- Making Plum Handkerchiefs
- Experience Plum Calligraphy
5. Tips for Visitors
The admission fee is 5,000 won, but it will be fully refunded in the form of a gift voucher that can be used on-site. Due to the large crowds at the festival venue and controlled vehicle access, please utilize public transportation.
It’s advisable to avoid weekends, particularly on March 9th, 10th, 16th, and 17th, as there tend to be too many visitors.
Since traveling from Seoul requires a considerable amount of time, a day trip may be challenging, so it’s advisable to plan for a 1-night, 2-day itinerary and explore nearby attractions.
👍 Recommended nearby attractions: Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve, Gurye, and Yeosu.
6. How to get to the venue
🚝By Train From Seoul
You can take the KTX or SRT from Seoul Station or Suseo Station to Suncheon Station, then transfer to the Mugunghwa-ho train to Jinsang Station. From Jinseong Station, take bus number 15 to “Maehwa” Station. (Taking a taxi is recommended, with an estimated fare of 15,000 to 20,000 won).
Korean railway system overview for traveler
🚗By Private Vehicle
If using a private vehicle, navigate to “55 Jimag 1-gil, Daap-myeon, Gwangyang-si, Jeollanam-do, South Korea” on Google Maps. It’s approximately 382km away and estimated to take around 4 hours and 10 minutes. The expressway toll is expected to be 17,300 won.
