For years, the festival has been synonymous with the arrival of spring, attracting both tourists and locals to the spectacle of blooming cherry blossoms. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SOKCHO, Mar. 1 (Korea Bizwire) – The Sangdomun Village Cherry Blossom Festival in Sokcho, Gangwon Province, will no longer herald the arrival of spring with its breathtaking floral displays.
This decision draws a curtain on a beloved 15-year tradition that began in 2009, primarily due to the aging population of local organizers, most of whom are now over 70.
For years, the festival has been synonymous with the arrival of spring, attracting both tourists and locals to the spectacle of blooming cherry blossoms.
Although the event was paused between 2019 and 2022 due to wildfires and the pandemic, it made a heartfelt return last year, reaffirming its place as a staple of springtime festivities.
The village, a gateway to Seoraksan National Park lined with cherry trees that create a stunning floral canopy, has long been a preferred destination for those seeking the beauty of spring.
The festival’s blend of rural experiences, local produce, and the sheer beauty of its setting has made it a must-visit during the season.
However, the logistical challenges of accommodating an ever-increasing number of visitors have taken their toll on the village’s senior women’s association, the festival’s primary organizers.
With no younger generation stepping forward to take the reins, the community faced the tough decision to end the festival.
Park Sung-kyun, the local village chief, voiced his sadness over the festival’s conclusion, noting the community’s demographic reality: “With a significant portion of our population over 65, continuing the festival is beyond our capacity due to the advanced age of our residents.”
A city official from Sokcho also expressed sorrow over the festival’s end, acknowledging the city’s limited capacity to support the event amid these demographic challenges.
“It’s deeply unfortunate that this event, driven by the hard work and passion of our residents for so many years, must come to an end. The city’s ability to assist is constrained by these demographic factors,” remarked the official.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
