Travellers heading to South Korea in October 2025 will have an extra reason to visit. On 16 October, the historic Haman Nakhwa Nori Festival will light up Gyeongsangnam-do with its famous “falling flower fireworks”.
The spectacle takes its name from Nakhwa, meaning “falling flower”. Sparks rain down like petals when Nakhwabong – cylinders packed with oak charcoal powder and wrapped in Korean paper – are set alight. The centuries-old tradition was suspended during the Japanese colonial period but revived in the 1980s, and in 2008 it was officially recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Gyeongsangnam-do.
This year’s festival carries extra significance as it marks 60 years of diplomatic ties between Japan and Korea. Over 1,000 Japanese visitors are expected, with travel agencies in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Sendai and Sapporo selling dedicated packages.
It’s not just about the fireworks. Visitors can try on hanbok, pen wishes on Nakhwabong papers, craft Korean-pattern keychains, and enjoy local delicacies while traditional music plays.
Getting there is straightforward – Haman is linked by KTX and Mugunghwa trains from Seoul and Busan, with shuttle buses from Haman Station. Accommodation ranges from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. For those wanting to explore more, highlights include the serene Mujinjeong Pavilion, the ancient Marisan Tumuli tombs, and the Haman Museum.
The festival adds to a growing line-up of cultural events promoted by the Korea Tourism Organisation, including a kimchi-making experience in Pyeongchang later this year.