May might just be the perfect month to travel to Korea. The weather is ideal, and there's a lot to do! From grand K-pop events and beautiful flower festivals to exclusive nighttime tours of the royal palaces, there's plenty to explore. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about traveling to Korea in May.
South Korea in May 2025
🌸 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Korea
💄 K-Beauty: Hair Salons, Skin Clinics, etc.
Other Monthly Guides
South Korea Weather: May Edition
Average Temperature (Seoul): 13℃ ~ 23℃ (55°F ~ 73°F)
May is arguably the most delightful season in South Korea, offering the most comfortable weather before summer officially sets in. Daytime temperatures are warm enough for short sleeves and shorts. However, to accommodate cooler evenings, it's wise to carry a light jacket. Keep in mind that cities like Busan, which are closer to the equator, are a bit hotter than Seoul!
For a guide on what clothes to pack for Korea, check out this blog here!
Additionally, the sun can be quite strong during May, so it's important to remember sun protection.
In May, South Korea transitions from the cherry blossom season to a time when various other flowers begin to bloom. Spring flowers like roses and tulips come alive, adding vibrant colors to the green-lined streets and park plantings. This creates a lively and picturesque atmosphere throughout the country. Take a look at the 6 Flower Festivals you have to check out in the blog below!
Flower Festivals in Seoul 2024
South Korea Public Holidays in May
Public Holidays: May 1st (unofficial), May 5th & May 6th
May is considered Family Month in Korea, featuring several holidays dedicated to spending time with loved ones. The most notable of these are Children's Day on May 5th and Parents' Day on May 8th. Children's Day is a public holiday, so the entire country gets the day off.
Other public holidays in May include Buddha's Birthday on May 5th. This year, since it falls on the same day as Children's Day, everyone will get the following day (May 6) off. Additionally, while Labor Day on May 1st is not an official public holiday, some people do get the day off.
*On these days, most, if not all shops will be open, but keep in mind that it may be a bit more crowded than usual.
Since these holidays are close together, many people are taking this opportunity to travel. This may mean that the airports will be even more crowded than usual, so it is advisable to head to the airport earlier than usual. Here's how you can check how busy the airport will be in advance:
Incheon Airport Congestion Forecast
Things to Do in Korea: May Edition
Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Viewings
***2025 Schedule TBA and updated once announced.
Every spring and fall, Gyeongbokgung Palace opens up its gates for a limited time to visitors during the night time to enjoy a beautiful view of the lit up palace under the moonlight.
During the nighttime tour, you can wander through various areas within Gyeongbokgung Palace, such as Gwanghwamun Gate, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Geunjeongjeon Hall.
The night viewing is a very special experience and even Koreans have a difficult time getting tickets as they are limited and sell out very quickly! If you're in Korea while the night viewing is available, you definitely don't want to miss it! Check out the blog below for the deets!
Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Viewings
Royal Palace Night Tours
For a limited period, the major royal palaces in Seoul are extending their visiting hours into the night, inviting guests to explore their enchanting beauty after dark.
The experience is further enhanced by special tours, some of which include traditional meals and access to limited areas within the palace. This year, the event will be open from April to May, with special dates reserved for foreigners in late April and early May.
Creatrip is the official affiliated platform for this event and is the only place you can get these foreigner-exclusive tickets. Check out the link below and make sure to secure your tickets if you want to go because they are running out fast!
Get tickets for the tours here:
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Exciting things happening in Seoul in May 2025
1. Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeondeunghoe)
📍 Jongno & Jogyesa Temple, Seoul
🗓️ April 16 – May 6, 2025
⏰ Main Parade: April 26, 7 PM
Buddha’s Birthday in Korea is one of the most magical times of the year, and the Lotus Lantern Festival is the highlight. Thousands of glowing lanterns fill the streets of Jongno, creating a warm, peaceful glow that you won’t soon forget. Traditional performances, hands-on cultural booths, and vibrant decorations make it feel like you’ve stepped into a different world.
2. Banpo Hangang Drone Light Show
📍 Banpo Hangang Park, Seoul
🗓️ Every Saturday in May (May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31)
⏰ 8 PM & 9 PM
One of the coolest free shows in the city, this weekly drone performance turns the sky into a canvas of light. With music, storytelling, and dazzling formations above the Han River, it’s a unique way to end your evening in Seoul—and a favorite among both locals and visitors.
3. Seoul Rose Festival
📍 Jungnangcheon Stream, Seoul
🗓️ May 17–26, 2025 (tentative)
⏰ Evenings recommended for romantic lighting displays
This lesser-known festival is a hidden gem, especially for flower lovers and couples. Walk under rose tunnels, snap aesthetic shots under fairy lights, and enjoy small performances and food stalls along the way.
4. Seoraeseom Canola Flower Festival
📍 Seoraeseom Island, Banpo
🗓️ Until early May
Located right in the city, this mini island transforms into a blanket of golden-yellow blooms each spring. It's a peaceful, scenic spot ideal for casual strolls, picnics, and nature-themed Instagram content.
K-pop Events & Concerts
The upcoming months are an exciting time for k-pop fans! Some of the biggest mid-year k-pop events will be held in May and June. Lineups are still being announced but check out what's out now by clicking on each events page below.
If you're a k-pop fan, these fun activities might intrigued you!
We hope this guide was helpful! If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at help@creatrip.com. You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook to stay updated on all things Korea!
