Cherry blossoms on a misty morning in Korea

It’s springtime in South Korea, and with milder temperatures and longer days comes the advent of the cherry blossom front. Sweeping its way across the world from lower to higher altitudes, the ‘Cherry Blossom Front’ has long captured the imagination. In Japan and Korea alike, people congregate in parks and cherry tree-lined streets, drinking, picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

The fleeting nature of this beautiful display makes it all the more special. Think, for instance, of tart crimson pomegranates, all the more treasured because they are available only for a few short weeks during Christmastime.

Magnolias blossoming.

With this in mind, I went for a wander on a cool, misty morning, hoping to catch my first glimpse of cherry and magnolia  trees in bloom. I was not disappointed.

I also encountered this fellow, strutting around at the park.

Having finally experienced cherry blossoms firsthand, I can understand why they…