Guide to Wildflower Viewing in Korea

Korea has a rich variety of wildflowers, from alpine meadows to coastal wetlands, with different blooms in every season. Below is a detailed guide organized by region and season.

1. Seoul & Gyeonggi Province (Capital Area)

Although urbanized, the capital region still has great spots for wildflowers, perfect for short trips.

• Namhansanseong (Mountain Ranges)

  • Season: April to May

  • Highlights: Wild cherry blossoms, azaleas, early spring flowers like violet wildflowers.

  • Tip: Trails are easy, suitable for a half-day trip.

• Han River Park

  • Season: Spring

  • Highlights: Wildflowers on the grass, dandelions, and wild chrysanthemums. Ideal for walking and photography.

2. Gangwon Province (East/Northeast Korea)

Gangwon Province is famous for mountains and expansive grasslands, making it a prime wildflower destination.

• Seoraksan National Park

  • Season: May to July

  • Highlights: Alpine azaleas, gentians, lilies, and high mountain wildflowers.

  • Tip: The Dragon Ridge Trail is especially abundant with wildflowers and perfect for photography.

• Odaesan National Park

  • Season: June to July

  • Highlights: Alpine meadow flowers such as lilies and violet wildflowers.

  • Tip: Trails also feature wild herbs alongside flowers.

• Taebaeksan

  • Season: June to August

  • Highlights: Alpine meadow flowers, including black gentians and purple lilies.

3. Gyeongsang Province & Ulsan (Southeast)

Mountain ranges and coastal wetlands here provide unique wildflower landscapes.

• Jirisan National Park

  • Season: May to July

  • Highlights: Alpine azaleas, wild lilies, and purple wildflowers.

  • Tip: Reserve a full day for hiking to enjoy the different flowers along the trails.

• Ulsan Daewang Valley

  • Season: May to June

  • Highlights: Valley wildflowers, violet violets, and white wild lilies.

• Gyeongju East Coast

  • Season: Late spring to early summer

  • Highlights: Coastal wildflowers like sea pinks and sand dune flowers.

4. Jeolla Province & Jeju Island (Southwest & Islands)

The warm climate allows for abundant wildflowers, with Jeju being a spring paradise.

• Suncheon Bay Wetlands

  • Season: April to May

  • Highlights: Eulalia grasses, wild irises, and coastal wildflowers. The wetlands and flower fields create a spectacular scene.

• Hallasan, Jeju Island

  • Season: May to August

  • Highlights: Alpine lilies, lilies of the valley, wild azaleas, and rare alpine plants.

  • Tip: The north slope trails have the densest flowers; early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.

• Seogwipo Fields, Jeju Island

  • Season: April to June

  • Highlights: Spring wildflowers such as canola flowers, lavender, and multicolored wildflowers.

5. Tips for Wildflower Viewing in Korea

1. Check the bloom season: Most wildflowers bloom from late spring to summer; alpine flowers bloom slightly later.

2. Consult flower information: National park websites often provide yearly bloom forecasts.

3. Respect trails: Avoid stepping on wildflowers to protect the ecosystem.

4. Photography tips: Early morning or late afternoon light provides soft lighting and vivid colors.

5. Combine with hiking: Many of the best spots are in mountainous areas, so wear comfortable hiking shoes.