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March in Korea is a time of transformation. As the last traces of winter fade away, the country welcomes the freshness of spring with open arms—and an abundant table. Rooted in agricultural traditions and the lunar calendar, March’s food culture revolves around seasonal ingredients, symbolic dishes, and festivals that mark nature’s renewal.
One of the most beloved celebrations of the season is Samjinnal (삼짇날), a festival that embodies the arrival of spring, prosperity, and renewal. This year, Samjinnal falls on March 26th, making it the perfect time to embrace the changing seasons through food, traditions, and cultural rituals.
Samjinnal, observed on the third day of the third lunar month, is one of Korea’s oldest seasonal festivals. It’s said that swallows return to Korea around this time, symbolising new beginnings and good fortune. This day is marked by vibrant springtime foods, lively traditions, and moments of appreciation for nature’s beauty.
Hwajeon: The Delicate Flower Rice Cake
One of the most iconic foods of Samjinnal is hwajeon (화전), an edible piece of art made from glutinous rice flour and decorated with colorful azalea petals. These delicate pancakes are lightly pan-fried, then drizzled with honey or omija (schisandra berry) syrup for a floral and tangy touch.
Traditionally, families would gather in the mountains to forage for fresh azalea blossoms, reinforcing Korea’s deep-rooted food philosophy of sonmat (손맛), or "hand taste" the idea that the best flavors come from ingredients prepared with care. While modern bakeries sell hwajeon in cities, purists believe nothing compares to the taste of homemade versions made with hand-picked flowers.
Beyond the food, Samjinnal is also about traditions. Folk games like pulssaum, where participants pull at grass stems to predict the year's harvest, and pulgaksi noreum, a ritual involving straw dolls believed to absorb bad luck, are still practiced in some rural areas.
Spotted a swallow or a snake on Samjinnal? Consider yourself lucky! These animals are seen as symbols of renewal and prosperity.
A Modern Take on Springtime Korean Cuisine
While traditions remain strong, modern Korean cuisine has found creative ways to bring seasonal flavors to a global audience.
🍦 Hwajeon Parfait: A layered dessert of flower rice cakes, vanilla ice cream, and berry coulis.
🌮 Cockle Tacos: A fusion dish where spicy marinated cockles meet soft tortillas.
Thanks to social media, these seasonal ingredients are gaining international attention, inspiring food lovers worldwide to try their own springtime Korean creations.
Spring at Kimchi Restaurant in Selly Oak
At Kimchi Restaurant, we love celebrating the beauty of seasonal Korean cuisine. Whether you’re craving a fresh, floral treat or a hearty seafood dish, our menu brings the authentic flavors of Korea straight to Birmingham.
🌸 Want to try something new? Ask our team about Korean spring dishes next time you visit!
Tag your foodie squad and come experience Korean springtime flavors with us.
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