Korea Festivals

Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival

Oct 30 – Nov 8, 2026 · Chungcheongnam-do

Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival. Photo: Korea Tourism Organization

Overview

The 23rd Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival unfolds magnificently for 10 days, from October 30 to November 8, 2026, around Gungnamji Pond, one of Buyeo's signature attractions. Themed “Chrysanthemums, Piecing Together Fragments of Autumn,” the festival offers a special time where the beauty of chrysanthemums blends with the history and culture of Baekje. The festival grounds are divided into five themed spaces — Fragment of History, Fragment of Scenery, Fragment of Connections, Fragment of Fragrance, and Fragment of Healing — displaying numerous specially designed chrysanthemum works and chrysanthemum sculptures found only in Buyeo, such as the Gilt-bronze Incense Burner and Sabimun Gate. In addition, the festival features various promotional and sales booths, food trucks, and chrysanthemum-related experience programs, offering a wide range of things to enjoy and see.

Why go

Now in its 23rd year, this festival turns the area around Gungnamji Pond into a themed chrysanthemum display from October 30 to November 8, 2026. Under the theme 'Chrysanthemums, Piecing Together Fragments of Autumn,' five zones pair flower sculptures with Baekje-era motifs, including replicas of the Gilt-bronze Incense Burner and Sabimun Gate. Food trucks and sales booths add a festival-market feel alongside the flower displays.

Getting there from Seoul

Buyeo has no KTX station, so the most direct option is an intercity/express bus from Seoul's Central City (Nambu) Terminal straight to Buyeo Bus Terminal, a trip of roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. Alternatively, take the KTX to Iksan or Gongju and transfer to a local bus or taxi onward to Buyeo. From Buyeo Bus Terminal, Gungnamji Pond is a short taxi ride or local bus hop away.

Tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning if possible, since peak bloom in late October draws weekend crowds.
  • Bring a jacket for evenings, as late October/early November can be cool after dark.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the themed zones are spread out around the pond.

Best for: families, photographers, history enthusiasts, autumn flower viewing.

  • Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Buyeo Chrysanthemum Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization

Other festivals in Chungcheongnam-do

  • Chungcheongnam-do

    Buyeo-gun Chungnam Gugak Group’s Saturday Show

    Mar 7 – Oct 31, 2026

  • Chungcheongnam-do

    Ganggyeong Salted Seafood Festival

    Oct 15 – Oct 18, 2026

    Ganggyeong Salted Seafood Festival is held in the town where the largest salted seafood market in Korea is located. The salted seafood in the area is known for its long tradition and special process. During the festival period, visitors can buy salted seafood at special discounted prices.

  • Jeollabuk-do

    NS Food Festa

    Oct 16 – Oct 17, 2026

    NS Food Festa is Korea's leading food culture festival, held in Iksan, a city renowned for its cuisine. Created jointly by NS Home Shopping and Iksan City, this festival goes beyond a simple food event to become a comprehensive food culture festival combining the nation's largest cooking competition with a variety of culinary experiences. On site, visitors can see the creative recipes presented by top chefs from across the country, as well as taste and purchase fresh local agricultural and livestock specialties at reasonable prices. In particular, the 'Gourmet Tour' program, which lets visitors vividly observe the cutting-edge food production process at Harim First Kitchen inside the festival grounds, offers visitors a unique source of enjoyment. In addition, the festival features cooking shows by celebrity chefs, a variety of interactive events, and cultural performances the whole family can enjoy together.

Festivals: Chungcheongnam-do

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Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site