Seoul is welcoming spring with the grand opening of the 2026 Seoul International Garden Show on May 1 at Seoul Forest, extending into nearby areas including Ttukseom Hangang Park, Seongsu-dong, and Hwayang-dong. Spanning 71 hectares and lasting 180 days, this year’s festival is the largest and longest in its history. Over 50 companies and institutions are participating, creating a vibrant display of gardens that blend art, culture, and nature.
One of the festival’s highlights is the Majung Garden – Forest Starting Line, designed by the Korea Racing Authority. This garden repurposes the history of Seoul Forest as a former horse racing track, transforming the old finish line into a symbolic starting point for new beginnings. Visitors can stroll through the green paths while learning about the site’s past, merging history with nature in a creative setting.
The festival also features urban retreat gardens designed by major construction companies such as GS Engineering & Construction, Daewoo E&C, HDC Hyundai Development, Gyeryong Construction, and Hoban Construction. Inspired by Jeju’s Gotjawal forest and quiet urban spaces, these gardens offer shaded walkways, colorful flowers, and relaxing areas where visitors can escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
For waterside lovers, healing lakeside gardens await, created by collaborations between K-Culture companies and local governments. Brands such as Musinsa, Kakao, Lotte World, Nongshim, Clio, and Youngpoong Books have designed serene spaces around the lakes, providing calm spots for reflection and leisure. Additionally, the Global Brand Walking Trail features themed gardens by Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Dior, Pokémon, SK Telecom, Starbucks, and Shinhan Card, allowing visitors to enjoy creative and immersive landscapes while taking a leisurely stroll.
Families are not left out, with a magical garden for children called KB Star Friends Garden – Witch’s Garden: Hidden Magic Quest. Filled with whimsical plants and interactive features, this area is perfect for children to explore and enjoy the wonders of nature. All 50 gardens are expected to be ready by late April, making the festival the ultimate destination for spring outings in Seoul.