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In the heart of China’s “peony capital,” Heze City in east China’s Shandong Province, the 2025 World Peony Conference and the 34th Heze International Peony Culture and Tourism Festival bloomed into life on April 8. Among the sea of vibrant blossoms, South Korean vlogger Kim Jeong-won embarked on a cultural journey that transcended borders.
The peony, revered in China as a symbol of national prosperity and happiness, has long served as a cultural ambassador, bridging continents and leaving an indelible mark on the history of horticulture. This year, the festival invited artists from around the world to share insights on how peony culture garners international recognition and showcases its cross-cultural charm.
Delving into the rich tapestry of Chinese tradition, Kim explored the breathtaking Caozhou Peony Garden at the height of its bloom. She admired the intricate hanfu designs inspired by peonies, the traditional Chinese attire deeply woven into the nation’s culture, history, and aesthetics.
In classical Chinese paintings and poetry, hanfu and peonies often appear together, with poets likening women in hanfu to blooming peonies. Embracing this heritage, Kim donned classical court lady attire, recreating iconic scenes from renowned Chinese artworks.
Her journey highlights the enduring appeal of Chinese culture and the universal language of beauty that peonies represent. Through her lens, audiences worldwide can appreciate the fusion of fashion, history, and nature, fostering deeper cross-cultural understanding.
