The capital and largest city of South Korea is the bustling city of Seoul. Considered to be centre of South Korea’s administrative, cultural and financial activity, Seoul is home to many historic landmarks, tourist attractions, and world heritage sites. Therefore, Seoul is also a popular tourist destination and offers accommodation and serviced apartment Seoul in luxury residencies such as Somerset Palace Seoul.
South Korea has a vibrant culture and this is exemplified by its many colourful festivities and elaborate celebrations. Ranging from religious festivals to annual cultural celebrations, South Korea has festivals that occur all year around. Thus a visit to South Korea at any time of the year offers you the chance to be a part of intriguing festivals and their respective rituals and customs.
One of the biggest festivals in South Korea is Seollal; the New Year’s festival. Seollal is celebrated at the dawn of a new lunar year and is accompanied by various rituals and customs such as paying respects to one’s elders, exchanging of gifts, preparing traditional meals and partaking in various traditional celebrations and games. Another popular festival is the Hansik which is celebrated during the 4th month of the lunar calendar and marks the beginning of the harvesting season. This festival too has its traditional rituals which are both colourful and intriguing. Another exciting festival is the Yangpyeong Strawberry Festival, where visitors can pick their own fresh strawberries and partake in several other exciting activities. The annual International Horticulture Goyang is also an interesting festival with elaborate flower displays from around the world and seminars on horticulture. Chuseok, one of the most vibrant traditional festivals is also a great event with lots of traditional games and age old traditional rituals. In addition to these there is also the Chuncheon International Mime Festival, Bitnoriya Festival and the traditional Dano festival which you can go and witness.
So the next time you visit Seoul, check out some of these amazing festivals and celebrations.
Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.