As an expat exploring Seoul beyond the usual palaces and K-pop, I stumbled upon a hidden gem: a traditional Korean flower arrangement class. Nestled in a charming hanok (traditional house) in Ikseon-dong, “Seoul Bloom Academy” offered a 2-hour session that became the highlight of my trip. Here’s why you should try it too!
Why a Flower Class in Seoul?
Seoul’s flower workshops blend artistry with Korean hyangyak (herbal medicine) philosophy, where each bloom carries meaning. Unlike Western arrangements, Korean kukkibana focuses on natural lines and minimalism—think “breathing space” for flowers! Plus, it’s a serene escape from the city buzz. Classes cater to foreigners with English-speaking instructors (often fluent or aided by translation apps).
My Class Journey: From Stems to Masterpiece
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Welcoming Ritual: We started with ddeok (rice cakes) and citron tea—a calming touch. Instructor Minji explained Korean floral symbolism:
- Peonies: Prosperity
- Eucalyptus: Protection
- Baby’s Breath: Pure Heart (used sparingly!).
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Hands-On Creation:
- Choosing Blooms: Picked seasonal stems (spring = tulips, cherry branches!).
- Technique Taught: The “triangle rule”—tall stems for height, mid-length for balance, short for depth.
- Korean Twist: We angled leaves downward to mimic “humble” nature postures.
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The Atmosphere: Soft gayageum (harp) music played as we worked. Minji gently adjusted my grip: “Hold stems like a paintbrush, not a hammer!”
The Result & Takeaways
My arrangement—a delicate balance of white peonies, blush roses, and curved willow branches—felt like “Seoul in a vase”: modern yet deeply rooted. We wrapped pieces in hanji (traditional paper) to take home. Beyond skills, I learned mindfulness: arranging flowers mirrored Seoul’s harmony of old and new.
Tips for Foreigners
- Booking: Use apps like Klook or Naver Booking (search “플라워 클래스”). Cost: ₩50,000–₩80,000 (~$40–$65).
- Language: Confirm English support when booking. Many instructors use visual demos!
- Locations: Try Ikseon-dong (artsy), Samcheong-dong (quiet), or Hongdae (trendy).
- Cultural Note: It’s polite to admire others’ work with “Jal haesseumnida!” (“Well done!”).
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t just crafting—it was meditation with petals. Whether you’re solo or with friends, a flower class unveils Seoul’s softer soul. My bouquet now brightens my Airbnb, whispering: “You rooted yourself here, even briefly.”
Ready to bloom? Classes run year-round—spring’s cherry blossoms or autumn’s chrysanthemums await your scissors! 🌸✂️