Spring bliss at Bucheon Azalea Festival

Korea is ushering in the sights and sounds of spring.

That being said, our Lee Eun-hee sheds light on a flower festival to celebrate this particular season.

The Bucheon Azalea Festival is blooming.

The vibrant pink azaleas have people soaking up the spring vibes.

Bucheon City, not too far from Seoul, is hosting this beautiful festival at Bucheon Stadium and Wonmisan Mountain or Wonmisan Azalea Hill.

"The trails around Wonmisan Azalea Hill offer a great opportunity to enjoy both the stunning azalea blossoms and the natural beauty of the landscape while hiking. It's the perfect way to soak in the scenery and get some fresh air."

"I visit every year. Taking in the scenery brings me a sense of peace. Now, at 72, I find myself reflecting on the beauty of life and the passing of time."

"It was my first time to come and see these beautiful flowers, I came to see the azalea blossom. And then I roamed around and saw lots of beautiful flowers. And then I found out the market which was nearby and there I enjoyed the food. It was crowded, but if you want to have beautiful photos for your Instagram or social media, I recommend that you visit here."

A key goal of the festival is to boost the local economy by hosting a variety of events and activities, such as making custom azalea-themed bags.

"The Azalea Festival is timed to coincide with the spring bloom, transforming open spaces at Bucheon Stadium into interactive attractions. To promote cultural tourism and support the local economy, the festival features a flea market with local artists, small business product sales, and a variety of food trucks."

Many other spring blossom festivals across South Korea are still running.

Other major festivals include the Daegu E-World Blossom Picnic, Taean Tulip Festival, Jinhae Gunhangjae Festival, and Gokseong World Rose Festival.

The Bucheon Azalea Festival will run until April 6th.

However, music performances have been canceled as a mark of respect for those affected by the recent tragic wildfires in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province.

Spring is here, but so are heartbreaking losses.

Lee Eun-hee Arirang News.