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Top 5 Outdoor Festivals to Visit in Korea This May
May is a great time to head outdoors in Korea. With warm weather and longer days, festivals are popping up across the country. Whether you’re into art, coffee, food, or live music, here are five events worth checking out this month
5 Outdoor Events Worth Checking Out in Korea This May
Haeundae Sand Festival
May 16 (Fri) – May 19 (Mon), 2025
Haeundae Beach, Busan
Now in its 20th year, this beachside event brings sand sculptures, hands-on activities, and eco-themed exhibits to Haeundae. It’s a relaxed way to spend time by the ocean and see what artists can do with just sand and water.
Global Yeongdo Coffee Festival
May 23 (Fri) – May 25 (Sun)
Amir Park, Yeongdo-gu, Busan
If you like coffee, this one’s worth a visit. Held in Yeongdo, a district known for its café culture, the festival includes over 80 brands and 150 booths. Expect everything from tastings to workshops and a good chance to discover new brews.
Car-Free Jamsugyo Bridge Festival
May 4 (Sun) – June 22 (Sun)
Every Sunday, 1 PM to 9 PM
Jamsugyo Bridge & Banpo Hangang Park, Seoul
Each Sunday, Jamsugyo Bridge is closed to cars and open to pedestrians. There are food trucks, live performers, and places to sit and take in the river view. It’s a simple but enjoyable way to spend a Sunday in Seoul.
K-Food Festival Knock Knock
May 29 (Thu) – May 31 (Sat), 2025
4 PM to 9 PM daily
Sejong-ro Park, Jongno-gu, Seoul
This festival focuses on Korean food—modern takes, local favorites, and lesser-known dishes. Alongside the food stalls, there are performances and handmade items on display. It’s an easy way to try a range of dishes in one place.
Seoul Jazz Festival 2025
May 30 (Fri) – June 1 (Sun), 2025
From 11 AM
Olympic Park, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Held in Olympic Park, the Seoul Jazz Festival brings together local and international acts. The music covers jazz and branches into pop, soul, and R&B. It’s a laid-back event with space to sit on the grass and take it all in.
If you’re in Korea this May and looking for something to do outdoors, these festivals offer a good mix of food, music, and atmosphere without needing to plan too much in advance.
