The rare cycad flower, known for blooming once every century, has made an appearance at the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo, drawing the attention of visitors. The cycad tree, which had generated anticipation for its flowering since the expo's establishment, is now emerging as a new tourist attraction.
The organizing committee for the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo announced on October 22 that the cycad tree located near the main event area’s restaurant and Market Island A in Jobaldo Forest has begun to bloom, leading to an influx of visitors.
Cycads are evergreen plants that thrive in warm regions, and their flowering times can vary based on environmental conditions and individual plant health. Due to the long time it takes for them to bloom, they have historically been regarded as rare flowers.
Particularly, the cycad flower is associated with the saying that it blooms once every hundred years, along with the belief that seeing the flower brings good luck, piquing the curiosity of visitors.
However, it is important to note that cycads do not actually bloom every hundred years. The flowering cycle can vary depending on temperature, sunlight, and growth conditions.
The cycad tree that has recently bloomed has been of interest since before the expo's establishment. As the event approaches its conclusion, the blooming flower provides another attraction for visitors.
According to the organizing committee, the observed flowers are female, displaying a unique structure with yellow-brown feather-like features and red fruits.
Unlike typical flowers with vibrant petals, first-time visitors may not easily recognize them as flowers.
On October 21, student groups showed interest in the cycad flowers, taking photos as they observed them.
One student remarked, "It was fascinating to see a flower I had never encountered before. I almost walked past it, but thinking I might not see it again made it feel even more special."
The legend surrounding the cycad flower's luck has also heightened visitor interest. Many have been seen wishing for family health and personal desires in front of the flower, establishing Jobaldo Forest as a new viewing point within the expo.
Surrounding the blooming cycad flowers, a walking area has been created to enjoy the autumn scenery.
Visitors can move along the forest path to an outdoor garden, where seasonal flowers like chrysanthemums can be seen alongside views of the sea off Yeosu. Sculptures representing female divers and coastal walking paths allow for enjoyment of both the natural landscape and expo exhibits.
Especially at sunset, visitors can appreciate the sunset views between the sea and islands, making it possible to combine daytime exhibit viewing with evening strolls.
The organizing committee hopes that the blooming of the cycad flower will serve as an opportunity to highlight the island's natural environment and ecological value.
Jeong Chun-hwan, head of the planning and publicity department of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo organizing committee, stated, "Just as the cycad has bloomed after a long wait, the island is also home to nature and life that have endured alongside the sea for many years. We hope visitors will make wishes in front of the cycad flower and encounter the luck that the island offers before the event concludes on November 4."
With the remaining days until the expo's closure, the cycad flower and other outdoor exhibits, along with the natural scenery, are expected to provide visitors with additional attractions.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo, themed 'Islands, Connecting the Sea and the Future,' opened on September 5 and will run for 61 days until November 4 at the main event site in Dolsan Jinmo District, Yeosu, as well as at the Yeosu World Expo site and the islands of Gaedo and Geumo. The event features exhibitions and experiential performances showcasing the culture, ecology, and future value of islands.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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