The Dark Side of Seoul Podcast

The Korean Cherry Blossom Controversy

ZenKimchi Episode 307

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0:00 | 42:23

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Cherry blossoms might seem like the most harmless part of spring in Korea. But behind the crowds, festivals, and photo spots, there’s a deeper story that most people don’t notice.

In this episode, we explore the quiet controversy surrounding cherry blossoms in Korea, from their role during Japanese colonial rule to the modern debates about whether they should even be celebrated at all.

We also talk about the now-familiar “Cherry Blossom Ajosshi,” a one-man protester who appears every spring to remind people of that history.

From nationalist myths to modern science, this is a story about how something as simple as a flower can carry layers of meaning.

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Produced by Joe McPherson and Shawn Morrissey

Music by Soraksan


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