In March 2026, Korea’s cherry blossoms began blooming earlier than historical averages for the third consecutive year. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), Seoul’s average winter temperature was significantly higher than the 30-year norm. As a result, popular viewing spots such as Yeouido and Jinhae are seeing blossoms up to a week earlier than expected.
Scientists link this shift to long-term warming trends across the Korean Peninsula. Earlier blooms may sound beautiful, but they disrupt ecosystems, agriculture timing, and festival schedules. Korea’s spring is changing — and it’s happening fast. The Korea Tourism Organization has released the official 2026 cherry blossom forecast, confirming earlier bloom dates across the country due to warmer late-winter temperatures.
Expected Bloom Dates in 2026
Jeju Island & Busan: March 25 (first blossoms) Jeonju & Gyeongju: March 28 Gangneung: April 1 Seoul: April 3 (first blooms) with full bloom around April 10
This year’s timings are 2–7 days earlier than the typical averages due to milder winter weather patterns.
