Every autumn, the small town of Hampyeong in Jeollanam-do transforms into a breathtaking sea of chrysanthemums.
The 2025 Korea Chrysanthemum Festival (대한민국 국향대전) will take place from October 18 to November 3, 2025, at Hampyeong Expo Park, one of the most scenic venues in southern Korea.
This national flower festival celebrates the beauty of chrysanthemums, one of Korea’s most beloved autumn flowers. Over 5 million blooms are carefully arranged into intricate displays, large floral sculptures, and themed gardens — making it one of the country’s most photogenic autumn destinations.
Festival Overview
The Korea Chrysanthemum Festival has been held annually for more than two decades and is now considered one of the top fall events in South Korea.
Beyond its floral beauty, the festival aims to promote eco-friendly agriculture, local culture, and community art.
Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of programs, from stunning exhibitions to interactive family experiences.
Location: Hampyeong Expo Park, Hampyeong-gun, Jeollanam-do
Period: October 18 – November 3, 2025
Admission: Usually free or with a small entry fee (to be announced)
Theme: “The Fragrance of Autumn Blossoms”
Exhibition Programs
The highlight of the festival is, of course, its spectacular chrysanthemum displays.
Each year, thousands of flowers are used to create creative, large-scale sculptures and floral art installations across the park.
Popular exhibits include:
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Giant Chrysanthemum Tower: A symbolic structure made entirely of blooming chrysanthemums.
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Chrysanthemum Tunnel: A colorful flower tunnel where visitors can walk through a canopy of blossoms.
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Character Displays: Cute figures and animal shapes made from flowers, great for family photos.
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Miniature Gardens: Artistic displays that represent famous landmarks or cultural icons using floral designs.
Visitors will also find exhibition zones showcasing local artists’ works, photography contests, and eco-friendly garden ideas inspired by Korean nature.
Experience Programs
For those who want to do more than just watch, the festival offers a wide range of hands-on experiences perfect for families, couples, and tourists.
Some of the most popular programs include:
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DIY Flower Crafts: Make your own chrysanthemum-themed souvenirs such as pressed flower bookmarks or small potted arrangements.
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Traditional Hanbok Experience: Try on traditional Korean clothing and take photos among the flowers.
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Local Food Market: Taste regional specialties from Jeollanam-do, including pumpkin pancakes, sweet rice drinks, and local honey.
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Night Light Garden: When the sun sets, the festival site transforms into a glowing garden filled with illuminated flower sculptures — ideal for evening strolls and photography.
These programs are designed to offer a deeper cultural experience, allowing visitors to connect with the local lifestyle and enjoy the warmth of Hampyeong’s community spirit.
Tips for Visitors
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Getting There: Hampyeong is about 45 minutes from Gwangju by car or train. Shuttle buses may be available during the festival period.
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Best Time to Visit: Late October is usually when the flowers are in full bloom. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
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What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a light jacket — autumn evenings can get chilly.
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Nearby Attractions: You can also visit Hampyeong’s Ecological Park, Butterfly Festival grounds, and nearby traditional markets.
Final Thoughts
The Korea Chrysanthemum Festival is more than just a flower event — it’s a celebration of Korea’s seasonal beauty and local creativity.
If you’re planning a fall trip to South Korea, this is one of the most scenic and relaxing festivals to experience.
It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the countryside charm, take stunning photos, and feel the gentle fragrance of autumn in the air.
