Samcheok, South Korea, June 1 (Korea Bizwire) – The 2025 Samcheok Rose Festival concluded on June 1 after a vibrant 10-day run, defying unseasonably cold temperatures and rainy weather to attract thousands of visitors to Gangwon Province’s coastal city.
Held at the expansive Rose Park in Samcheok, the festival opened on May 23 under the theme “The Rose Fairy and the Secret Garden.” Spanning 85,000 square meters, the event featured six themed zones filled with sensory-rich attractions, including hands-on activities, live performances, food vendors, and immersive photo spots.
Organized by the Samcheok Tourism and Culture Foundation, the festival reaffirmed its reputation as the largest flower-themed event on Korea’s East Coast. The highlight was a “Flower Path Run” parade through fields blooming with over 10 million roses, alongside a popular photo zone hosted by a costumed “Rose Fairy.”
One of the most engaging experiences was the interactive mission game “Catch the Golden Rose,” which encouraged visitors to explore various corners of the park while completing challenges. Organizers said the program significantly boosted visitor satisfaction.
On May 31, the final day of the 2025 Samcheok Rose Festival, the Republic of Korea Air Force’s elite aerobatic team, the Black Eagles, performs an air show over Samcheok Rose Park.
This year’s festival also introduced several new cultural offerings that generated buzz. The Hungarian Romani music ensemble Kovács Trio captivated audiences, while the Republic of Korea Air Force’s elite Black Eagles aerobatic team delivered a showstopping air performance—marking the first time the aerial display was held in Samcheok.
To better assess visitor turnout and satisfaction, the foundation employed big data analytics and on-site surveys for the first time. Results will be shared with local residents as part of a transparency initiative.
Despite early weather setbacks, the event was deemed a success. “We were concerned about the cold and rain at the start, but turnout exceeded expectations,” said a foundation official. “Next year, we plan to offer even more experiences to complement the blooming roses and elevate the festival further.”
Image credit: The City of Samcheok, Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com
