Winter may not be the best time to be on the lookout for flowers, but in Korea it’s the season of camellias. Camellias are admired for their gorgeous and lively red color that brave the cold. The best spots to enjoy the sight of camellias are along the southern coast and Jeju Island. Camellias usually blossom throughout November to March, but their peak season varies by region so it is advised to check before visiting.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is Korea’s popular vacation destination and a popular camellia destination. The sight of camellias in full bloom blending in with Jeju Island’s charming nature is like a work of art. Among the many camellia attractions in Jeju, here are a few recommended spots for taking memorable photos.

Camellia Hill is a nature-themed park that showcases camellias native to Korea as well as a different variety of camellias from all over the world. The park has many themed gardens such as European camellia forest, baby camellia forest, secret camellia forest path, and a green house, as a well as convenient amenities like a cafe and souvenir shop. As you walk around the park, you’ll find places that are decorated with props for taking lovely photos.

Jeju Camellia Arboretum has gained much attention on social media for its round camellia trees that look just like cotton candies. Trees dotted with red flowers clustered together create an exotic scenery. The arboretum has an observatory where you can take in the view of the camellia forest and Jeju’s blue sea altogether.

Another Instagrammable camellia attraction is the Camelia Forest. Camelia Forest is a great place to take effortless beautiful photos. It also has a café where you can gaze upon the camellia flowers with a cup of tea or coffee in your hand. The best place to take memorable photos is by the window on the café’s 1st floor at the picture-like window frame.

Jangsado Sea Park in Tongyeong

Jangsado Sea Park in Tongyeong is a well-known camellia attraction that made an appearance in the popular Korean drama “My Love from the Star (2013).” Getting to this park requires effort as it can only be reached by taking a ferry from Tongyeong or Geoje, but the park’s beauty attracts crowds of visitors every year. Take a light stroll around the island for a majestic view of the ocean and camellias, and don’t forget to take a photo at the Camellia Tunnel on the way!

Odongdo Island in Yeosu

Thousands of camellia trees cover Odongdo Island, blanketing the island with red polka dots in winter. The breakwater that connects Odongdo Island from the mainland acts as a bridge for convenient access. Tourists can also take the tourist train called the Camellia Train for a unique experience. The island offers many entertaining amenities like a walking trail, a lighthouse, and a music fountain.

Jisimdo Island in Geoje

Jisimdo Island is one of the areas that has done a great job in preserving the camellia forest in its original state, allowing trees that are hundreds of years old to boast their natural beauty. Follow the walking trail for a tour of the island that includes views of camellia flowers, sea water, and adorable statues. Jisimdo Island can be reached by taking a boat for about 15 minutes from Geoje in the southern coast.

Dongbaekseom Island in Busan

Dongbaekseom Island was named so due to its abundant camellia trees, which is “dongbaek" in Korean. Dongbaekseom Island was once an isolated island but has gradually become connected to the mainland due to sedimentation overtime. The island is also the perfect place to chill thanks to the dense pine forest and unobstructed ocean view of Busan. Dongbaekseom Island is recommended to travelers visiting Busan as it’s located next to Haeundae Beach.

Seonunsa Temple in Gochang

Seonunsa Temple is a meaningful attraction for holding historical value and housing many cultural assets, but it also has a camellia forest that has been designated as a Natural Monument. The forest is situated behind the temple and is known to have been created a long time ago to protect the temple from wildfire. The scenery of the tranquil temple against the thick camellia forest is a quite a sight to behold.

* This column was last updated in February 2023, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check details before visiting.