Travel
May in Seoul brings festivals, performances, and gardens across the city
haps Magazine Korea
May 12, 2025
(Seoul Metropolitan Government)
Throughout May, Seoul transforms into a vibrant cultural hub, offering a wide range of outdoor festivals and performances across key locations like Seoul Plaza, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), and Hangang Parks.
Citizens can enjoy musical showcases, garden exhibitions, hands-on art events, and global cultural programs.
Major highlights include the 2025 Seoul Drum Festival at Nodeul Island on May 10–11, featuring world-class drummers and a large-scale percussion parade, as well as weekly outdoor shows at Seoul Plaza, such as musicals and family performances. The Seoul Philharmonic’s neighborhood concerts and the ‘Culture Flows at Seoul Plaza’ series add musical charm on weekday evenings.
Seoul also embraces its “garden city” identity with events like the Seoul International Garden Expo at Boramae Park from May 22, and the Children’s Garden Festival running through May 18. The Seoul Sculpture Festival at Baekje Cultural Park, open through August, showcases contemporary outdoor installations.
Additional attractions include the Seoul Friendship Festival at DDP on May 24–25, the Hangang Drone Light Show on May 11 and 25, and the Slow Hangang Triathlon from May 30 to June 1. Visitors can also enjoy late-night museum programs and craft workshops with pets.
More details and reservations are available on Seoul’s official website and cultural portals.