What to eat in Seoul in March: Seasonal delicacies
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Samgyeopsal & galbi Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ centers on grilling pork belly (samgyeopsal) or marinated beef short ribs (galbi) at your table, then wrapping meat with lettuce, garlic, and ssamjang paste. It is a social meal best shared, with banchan refilled as needed. Many cuts are gluten-free if marinades are simple, though soy sauce can contain wheat. In Myeongdong or Mapo, numerous BBQ houses operate late, making this a classic night out.
Seolleongtang is a milky ox-bone soup simmered for hours to extract depth and collagen richness. It is served with rice and sliced beef, and diners season it individually with salt and scallions. The dish is especially popular during colder months and widely eaten in winter.
Jajangmyeon consists of wheat noodles topped with black bean sauce, pork, and diced vegetables. It is commonly ordered for casual meals and celebratory occasions and is available throughout the year.
March is a transitional month, with chilly mornings and warming afternoons. The city wakes from winter as cafés set up patios and early cherry blossoms appear in the last week. Independence Movement Day brings patriotic ceremonies and moderate tourism.
Pro tips for visiting Seoul in March
Early March is still chilly, so pack layers for variable temperatures.
Late March sees the first cherry blossoms—book hotels early if chasing blooms.
Independence Movement Day (March 1) brings ceremonies and some road closures in central districts.
Cafés and outdoor spaces become livelier as locals embrace spring.
At the Garden of Morning Calm near Seoul, over a million LED lights cover trees, paths, and themed gardens through winter. Many visitors join evening tours from Seoul for a few hours of illuminated landscapes. Weekends and holidays are busiest, so weekday visits are calmer. Dress for subzero temperatures and possible snow on garden paths.
South Korea’s largest cherry blossom festival in Jinhae draws many visitors from Seoul for day or overnight trips. Streets, streams, and an old train station are lined with dense blossoms and photo spots. Expect heavy congestion at peak hours and sold-out KTX tickets unless booked early. Tours from Seoul help simplify transport for non-Korean speakers.
Seoul Fashion Week’s fall/winter edition brings runway shows, street style photographers, and pop-up events to Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Main shows cater to industry guests, but outdoor areas give the public access to fashion installations and occasional open events. Expect more photographers and stylish visitors in Dongdaemun, plus heavier evening foot traffic.
Late March brings coordinated exhibitions and fairs across major galleries and museums in Seoul. Events include the Korea Galleries Art Fair at COEX and special programs at Seoul Museum of Art. This week is ideal for art-focused itineraries, as extended hours and pop-up markets make gallery-hopping easy. Check individual venues for admission fees and evening schedules.
On March 1, official ceremonies mark the 1919 Independence Movement with bell-ringing at Bosingak and events at Tapgol Park. Short marches and flag displays can briefly close central roads. Most tourists can observe from sidewalks without needing tickets. It adds historical context to a Seoul stay but does not significantly disrupt attraction openings.
One of Asia’s older city marathons, this race starts near Gwanghwamun and finishes at Jamsil Olympic Stadium. Around 20,000 runners follow a 42.2 km route past landmarks and along the Han River. Road closures occur on race morning, but normal traffic resumes by early afternoon. Spectators can cheer from sidewalks; participants must register months ahead.
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Seoul in March
