By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Myrtle Iris Villaraza from the Philippines
Photos = Korea.net DB

You probably know that the National Flower of Korea is the hibiscus, or mugunghwa (무궁화). However, do you know the official flower of Seoul, the country’s capital? If you’re in Seoul right now, go outside and look for the little pretty yellow flowers blooming along sidewalks, in parks and at many other places. That’s it! The official flower of Seoul is the forsythia, or gaenari (개나리).

In early April 2013, I experienced spring for the first time and it was in Seoul. While on the road one day, I remember looking fondly at the small yellow flowers adorning the side of the highway. They were starting to bloom and adding a burst of color to the surroundings. My Korean colleague and friend said that the flowers are called forsythias, and when they bloom, it means that spring has already started. Yellow is my favorite color, so I instantly loved this flower. In addition, they were so refreshing to look at, and they brought me lots of happiness after weeks of seeing only leafless and flowerless plants and trees that had just gone through winter in Korea.

Years later, while reading about Seoul, I found out that the forsythia is the city’s official flower. According to the website of the Seoul Metropolitan City, “The Seoul Metropolitan Government designated the forsythia as the official flower of Seoul on April 3, 1971. The flower is considered the most appropriate symbol of Seoul’s climate. Forsythias come into full bloom in early spring, and symbolize the cooperative spirit of Seoulites.” Upon learning this, I loved the flowers even more. I didn’t know that the yellow flowers I liked so much had such a special meaning for Seoul and its citizens.



So if you’re in Seoul or you’re going to Seoul this spring, take a moment to appreciate the forsythias around you. I hope it reminds you of Seoulites’ spirit, and that it brings you much happiness, too. If you can’t get enough of their beauty, why not go to the Eungbongsan Mountain Forsythia Festival (응봉산 개나리축제) this week? It’s happening for three days from April 6 to 8 at the Eungbongsan Mountain Palgakjeong Pavilion at Eungbongsan Mountain, Eungbong-dong, Seongdong-gu District, Seoul. Admission is free.

To get there, take a subway to Eungbong Station on the Gyeongui-Jungang Line. Then, walk out of Exit 1 and walk for about 15 minutes. You can also ride a blue bus (numbers 110B, 241, or 421) or a green bus (2016 or 4211) and get off at the Eungbong-dong Hyundai APT Bus Stop.

Enjoy, and don’t forget to take and share a lot of photos!

wisdom117@korea.kr

* This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.