As the summer sun casts its warm glow over South Korea, the bustling city of Seoul comes alive with an array of exciting festivals and events. If you’re a tourist seeking unforgettable experiences, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, we’ll explore the summer activities awaiting you in Seoul during May, June, July, and August 2024. From cultural celebrations to outdoor adventures, Seoul has something for everyone.
Let’s dip into the vibrant soul of Seoul and discover the best ways to make the most of your summer adventure.
May 2024: Lotus Lantern Festival
The Lotus Lantern Festival, Yeon Deung Hoe, is an annual traditional Buddhist celebration in South Korea. It takes place on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, typically falling in April or May. The festival is highly significant and draws both locals and international visitors.
Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.
Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.
In addition to the lantern parade, the Lotus Lantern Festival offers various cultural performances, art exhibitions, traditional music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations. Visitors can also engage in Buddhist ceremonies, and temple tours, and participate in activities like making lotus lanterns and meditation sessions.
Event Date: 10 -12 May 2024
Location: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
June 2024: Busan One Asia Festival
The Busan One Asia Festival (BOF) is an annual cultural event that aims to bring together young people from Busan and around the world to enjoy Korean cultural content, particularly K-pop performances. This year, Busan One Asia Festival is celebrating its 8 years representing Korea’s cultural event in Asia.
One of the highlights of BOF is the lineup of hottest K-Pop idols like ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR, and n.SSign dazzled the audience with their energetic choreography and powerful vocals, while legendary acts like Super Junior D&E and God brought nostalgia and excitement to the stage.
You can join the BOF Big CONCERT with a tour from Klook
Event Date: 8 Jun 2024
Location: Busan Asiad Main Stadium
June 2024: Pohang International Fireworks Festival
The Pohang International Fireworks Festival is an annual event held in Pohang, South Korea, featuring a spectacular display of fireworks. In addition to the fireworks, the festival offers a host of other activities and entertainment, such as busking, parades, street performances, street art, food stalls, and international cultural exchange programs.
You can join this festival with a tour from Trazy or Klook.
Event Date: June 1, 2024
Location: Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, South Korea
July 2024: Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival
The Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival has gained increased recognition and popularity over the years, becoming Korea’s representative summer flower festival. It has been selected as an ‘Excellent Festival’ multiple times, highlighting its growing importance in the cultural landscape of South Korea. The festival takes place every July during the peak summer season when lotus flowers are in bloom.
Over the years, the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival has expanded its lineup of activities. Now, you have the chance to engage in various activities including crafting paper lotus flowers, making lotus flower soap, enjoying a night parade starring Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa, traditional music and dance performances featuring the rich heritage of Baekje culture, participating in a photo contest, food tasting and amazed by LED lights and lanterns.
Festival Date: July 5 -7,2024
Location: Gungnamji Pond in Buyeo Seodong Park, Buyeo County, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea
July to August 2024: Boryeong Mud Festival
The Boryeong Mud Festival is an annual event held in Boryeong, South Korea, which uses mud from the Boryeong mud flats. This festival, first staged in 1998, attracts millions of visitors yearly. It is known for its mud-based activities, including mud baths, mud slides, mud prisons, mud skiing competitions, and body painting using colored mud.
The mud from the Boryeong mud flats is believed to be rich in minerals and is associated with various health benefits. Initially created as a marketing strategy for Boryeong Mud Cosmetics, the festival has grown into a major cultural event, featuring live music, dance competitions, and entertainment activities.
Visitors of all ages can participate in the festival, which offers a lively and joyful atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. The Boryeong Mud Festival is a unique celebration that combines fun, health benefits, and cultural experiences centered around the therapeutic properties of mud.
You can join this festival with a tour from Klook
Festival Dates: 19 Jul – 04 Aug 2024
Location: Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea
July to August 2024: Waterbomb Festival
The Waterbomb Festival is one of South Korea’s most anticipated summer music festival featuring a blend of K-pop, K-hip-hop, and EDM performances. Participate in water gun battles, water canons, and other water activities while enjoying live music. It’s a fun-filled event dancing to the beats in a refreshing setting.
Festival Dates: 5 Jul – 31 Aug 2024
Location: vary by dates
July 2024: Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival
The 17th Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival is a celebration of the region’s freshwater resources, including the Tamjingang River, Jangheung Dam Lake, and Deukryang Bay seawater. It aims to boost tourism and the local economy by showcasing the area’s cleanliness and greenery, attracting visitors to enjoy organic agricultural products.
Unlike typical festivals, it offers unique water-themed activities suitable for the hot summer season. Recognized as a designated cultural and tourism festival, it has become a signature event alongside other local attractions. It’s not just a festival but a place to immerse in clean nature and relaxation to beat the summer heat.
Event Date: TBA
Location: TBA
August 2024: Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival
Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is the biggest live music event in South Korea, attracting both aspiring and prominent musicians from Korea and around the world. The 2024 edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from August 2-4, 2024 at the Songdo Moonlight Festival Park in Incheon. However, the full lineup for the 2024 edition of the festival has not been revealed yet. The official website will post more details about the 2024 lineup will be announced closer to the event dates.
Festival Date: 2 – 4 Aug 2024
Location: Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, Incheon
Here are some of the best summer music festivals you won’t want to miss
K-Pop Music Festivals In Korea:
Dream Concert – Seoul
Spectrum Dance & Music Festival – Seoul
Rock Music Festivals In Korea:
IT’S A FEST – Incheon
Indie Music Festivals In Korea:
GreenPlugged – Seoul
Grand Mint Festival – Seoul
Rainbow Island – Gapyeong
EDM Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul World DJ Festival – Seoul
Ultra Music Festival Korea – Seoul
5tardium – Seoul
EDC Korea – Seoul
Other Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul Jazz Festival – Seoul
DMZ Peace Train Music Festival – Seoul
NBA Buzzer Beat Festival – Seoul
Rapbeat Festival – Seoul
SKA Superswag Festival – Incheon
Big Day South – Busan
August to September 2024: Daegu Chimac Festival
The Daegu Chicken and Beer Festival, also known as the “Daegu Chimac Festival”, is an annual event held in Daegu, South Korea, celebrating the popular combination of chicken and beer (referred to as “chimac” in Korean). The festival features a variety of chicken dishes such as fried, grilled, and spicy chicken, showcasing the culinary creativity of local chefs and vendors.
You can also enjoy a wide selection of local and international beers to complement the chicken. This festival includes various activities and entertainment, such as surprising performances, in addition to the food and drink offerings.
Food Festivals in Korea during the Summer
Summer 2024: Bonghwa Eun-uh (Sweetfish) Festival
Held annually during the summer months which is typically the end of July, this festival celebrates the local specialty product of sweetfish, a cherished delicacy in Korean cuisine. The festival presents a variety of engaging programs that allow visitors to actively participate.
These include fishing, water play, a water fight, and agricultural experiences.
August to September 2024: Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival
Every year between August and September, Makguksu, a traditional Korean buckwheat noodle dish, takes center stage at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival. Made from freshly ground buckwheat flour and served in a chilled broth, this refreshing dish is the perfect antidote to the summer heat. Sample a variety of makguksu preparations, from classic versions to creative twists created by local chefs.
There’s a variety of fun-filled activities designed to entertain and delight festival-goers of all ages. From cooking competitions and food-eating contests to interactive games and cultural exhibits, there’s never a boring moment at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival.
Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.
Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa, but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.
How To Stay Connected: Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.
Where To Stay: For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).
Incheon Airport To Seoul: Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.
Korean Tour Operators: Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook, Trazy, Viator, and Get Your Guide. These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.
Seoul City Passes: Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass. These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.
How To Get Around: For public transport, grab a T-Money Card. Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass. To see more of Korea, there are many rental car options from Klook, EconomyBookings, and RentalCars.
Travel Money: Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.
Flights To Korea: I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.
Travel Insurance: It is important to insure your trips to protect yourself against the unexpected. World Nomad is a specialized travel insurance provider with options for different coverage for travellers from around the world. You can also purchase cover when you are already travelling.
How To Learn Korean: The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.
A new attraction in Seoul this June 2024: Moon of Seoul
June 2024: The “Moon of Seoul” will rise to 150 meters above Yeouido
Set to fly in June, the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has announced an exciting new addition to the city skyline – the Moon of Seoul! This moon-shaped hot air balloon will soar 150 meters above Yeouido Park, offering a remarkable night experience.
While it may look like a regular hot air balloon, the Moon of Seoul is filled with helium gas and tethered to the ground by sturdy cables. The buoyancy of helium and an electric mechanism power its vertical trips.
The making of the Moon of Seoul began in January, with careful planning and construction, and started its installation at Yeouido Park’s Grassy Field on April 29. Thorough test flights will be conducted to guarantee safety before the official launch in late June, the actual launch date will depend on weather conditions to ensure the best viewing experience possible.
Each trip lasts about 15 minutes and can accommodate up to 30 passengers. Imagine wandering above Seoul’s busy streets, seeing the iconic landmarks and Hangang River. Visitors can enjoy the Moon of Seoul from Tuesday to Sunday, between 12 PM and 10 PM. Adult tickets start at KRW 25,000, with discounts available for certain groups. Maintenance work is scheduled for Mondays to keep the attraction in top condition.
| Category | Price (KRW) | Note |
| Adult | 25,000 | -Adult (aged 19 – 64) -Elderly (aged 65 or older) Child (aged 36 months to 18 years) |
| Child, Elderly | 20,000 | |
| Persons with disabilities, Persons of distinguished service to the State | 30% off from the above price | |
| Group discount (20 or more) | 10% off from the above price |
The Moon of Seoul is set to become a landmark in the city’s skyline. It’s sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of locals and tourists. Remember to capture your experience and share it on Instagram for all to see!
Please note that the booking link for the Moon of Seoul will be available soon. Keep an eye out for updates on how to reserve your spot!
How to get there: Take the subway to Yeouido Hangang Park. Travelers can alight at Yeouinaru Station Line 5, exits 2 or 3.
Address: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330 (여의도동) | 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
Other activities at Yeouido Hangang Park can be booked at Klook
Top 10 Events in Seoul featured in Fever
Bluespring Summer Night 2024 Music Festival (Pre-Sale)
Bringing all music lovers to the vibrant city of Seoul – Blue Spring Summer Night, the annual music festival will feature a stellar lineup of Korea’s top vocalists Jeong Eun Ji, Kim Feel, John Park, Lee Byeong Chan, and many more!
The excitement doesn’t stop with music. Indulge your taste buds at various food zones, explore side events, and immerse yourself in the cool summer atmosphere of the festival.
Event Date: July 6-7, 2024
Time: 03:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: TBA
Join the waitlist and get a presale link on 5/7 with a Fever-exclusive discount price before the tickets are released.
Discover the Wonders of Miniature Life with Tatsuya Tanaka’s “MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND” Exhibit in Seoul
On-going from March 2 – June 10
The MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND exhibition showcases over 200 artworks, including 52 original miniatures, photographs, and videos, each crafted with meticulous detail and infused with Tanaka’s signature charm. Themes such as HOME, FORM, COLOR, SCALE, MOTION, LIFE, and WORLD serve as a gateway into Tanaka’s imaginative universe, where objects are transformed and narratives unfold in miniature form.
Event Date: On-going from March 2 – June 10 (open every day)
Time: Weekdays: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (last admission: 8:00 pm)
Weekends (Sat-Sun): 10: 00 am – 10:00 pm (last admission: 9:00 pm)
Location: MPX Gallery, Level 3, IFC Mall (10, International Finance Street, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul)
Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the magic of.
Get Ready to Dance: The 2024 World DJ Festival is Here!
15 & 16 June 2024
The 2024 World DJ Festival brings together top DJs from around the globe for an unforgettable experience of music and energy. As Asia’s premier EDM festival and the first Korean festival to be ranked in DJ MAG’s Top 100, festivals promise to deliver a unique atmosphere filled with pulsating beats.
Renowned artists Eric Prydz, KSHMR, The Chainsmokers, and more will take the stage at SeoulLand, Gwacheon. From the high-energy sets on the World Stage to the dreamy vibes of the Dream Stage invite music lovers from ages 19 and above.
Secure your spot with 1-Day or 2-Day passes, giving you access to a lineup of global top DJ headliners and electrifying performances that will keep you dancing all night long.
Event Date: 15 & 16 June 2024
Time: 02:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Seoul Land, 181 Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Click here for more information and Booking
Spain Club, Seoul’s Ultimate Destination for Authentic Spanish Dining
04 May – 30 Dec 2024
Exclusive Set Menus Available Only on Fever!
Experience the flavors of Spain right here in Seoul at Spain Club, the largest Spanish restaurant in Korea. Delighting diners with an exquisite menu of traditional Spanish dishes for over a decade.
Taste the authentic sirloin steak, and flavorful seafood paella crafted with the finest ingredients sourced from directly from Spain!
Enjoy your sangria with friends in the vibrant atmosphere of Spanish hospitality.
Location: Spanish Club Garosu-gil (26, Apgujeong-ro 10-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul)
Click here for more information and Booking
Neon Brush Painting Workshop
23 – 25 May 2024
Come solo or bring your friends, sure you’ll enjoy this! A unique and immersive experience happening at Neon Brush Painting Workshop that invites you to unleash your creativity in a vibrant retro-futuristic atmosphere. A combination of art, ambiance, and entertainment is waiting for you to create classic and fluorescent paint under the glow of neon lights memorable and guided by expert artists.
After the session, you can take home your wonderful creation as a reminder of your proud experience at the workshop.
Event Date: 23 – 25 May 2024
Location: The Room Taktinn (Samcheong-ro 4, 4th Floor, Jongro-gu, Seoul)
Click here for more information and Booking
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
03 – 31 May 2024
Transport yourself to the 19th century and explore some of Van Gogh’s most iconic masterpieces like never before. It’s a multi-sensorial experience that will leave you wanting more! Step into Van Gogh’s World, and immerse yourself in the life and art of the genius artist through cutting-edge 360-degree projection mapping. The exhibition offers a one-of-a-kind virtual reality (VR) experience titled “A Day in the Life of the Artist in Arles, France,” allowing you to dive deeper into the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh’s works.
Join us in celebrating Van Gogh’s 171st anniversary with a special 20% discount—secure your tickets now and don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Click here for more information and Booking
Location: GIDC Gwangmyeong G floor (B2 floor)
S2O Korea Songkran Music Festival 2024
13 – 14 Jul 2024
Songkran Music Festival 2024 is a spectacular water EDM festival that lets you experience music, energy, and water effects. Hosted at SeoulLand, this festival features live performances from the world’s top DJs, and will surely beat the heat with 1 million liters of water that will create an aquatic party atmosphere.
Prepare to be blown away by performances from acclaimed artists including VINI VICI, NICKY ROMERO, TJR, BEN NICKY, NERVO, KAAZE, SUB ZERO PROJECT, MIKE WILLIAMS, RAY VOLPE, TRITONAL, just_____us, and SALVATORE GANACCI. More to come!
Dates: July 13 & 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Location: SeoulLand
Click here for more information and Booking
Have a Nice Trip 2024 Music Festival
27 – 28 Jul 2024
Look forward to an array of exciting activities and amenities to enjoy. Take a break from the summer heat with indoor performances, explore various tasty food zones, and engage in fun-filled activities that promise to keep the excitement going all day long.
Ready to be captivated by the soulful melodies of Alec Benjamin, Peach Pit, and the dynamic performances of Henry Moodie, Hong Isaac, Kenya Grace, KISS OF LIFE, and Will Hyde. Then, on Sunday, July 28th, get ready to groove to the indie vibes of Alvvays, the mesmerizing sounds of King Krule, and the enchanting performances of KWON JIN AH, Nerd Connection, Remi Wolf, Sampha, and Surl.
Dates: July 27 – 28, 2024
Time: 12:00 – 22:00 (ticket booths open at 11:30 a.m.)
Location: KINTEX 2nd Exhibition Center, Ilsan
Click here for more information and Ticket Booking
Create Your Signature Scent at Lumiere Parfum Seongsu
4 May – 30 Dec 2024
Participate in a one-day class led by professional perfumery experts where you’ll have the opportunity to create and customize your signature scent. Explore a wide selection of fragrances and learn the art of blending to craft a personalized perfume that reflects your unique personality. The sensory space at Lumiere Parfum is designed to engage your senses and awaken your creativity.
As a special token, you can bring home a mini perfume gift to cherish your experience in this perfume-making class and enjoy your custom fragrance wherever you go.
Dates: 03 May – 30 Dec 2024
Location: Lumiere Parfum Seongsu (#301, Wonchangsilup Nadong, 49 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul)
Click here for more information and Ticket Booking
Candlelight Spring: Tribute to Taylor Swift
14 Jun 2024
Experience the magic of live music at Candlelight concert where talented musicians play in a magical setting that captures your heart. The candlelight and beautiful floral displays create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that awakens your overall sensory experience. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a string quartet that interprets Taylor Swift’s iconic songs such as “Love Story,” “Blank Space,” “Shake It Off” and more.
Location: Platform L Contemporary Art Center, 11 Eonju-ro 133-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Click here for more information and Ticket Booking
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