Niantic's Pikmin Bloom is hosting a paid event, 'Pikmin Bloom Journey 2026: Seoul,' in Seoul, South Korea, over two days on the 23rd and 24th.

This live event takes place in Seoul, with an online version scheduled for one week after the event concludes, allowing participation from anywhere in the world. The live event is set in the Yeouido area. Only users who purchased tickets in advance can participate, and they can visit special spots to obtain unique Pikmin, themed costumes, and postcards.

There are 16 special spots in total, each featuring unique Decor Pikmin. As players enjoy the game, they can naturally explore landmarks near Yeouido, such as Hangang Park, the 63 Building, Mapo Bridge, IFC Mall, and various restaurants and cafes.

An opportunity was provided to speak with Niantic representatives regarding the special event in Seoul. The interview included Tomo Yamazaki, President of Niantic Japan and General Manager of Pikmin Bloom; Game Designer Hiyuki Suda; and Live Event Marketing Manager Hong Je-hee.

This Journey event is the first to be held outside of Japan and the first paid event in Korea. It was organized following the positive reception of last year's free event in Seoul and consistent requests from users. Representative Director Tomo Yamazaki shared his thoughts, stating, "Although the venue is different from last year, I am very pleased that we are able to hold this event."

Regarding the Pikmin Bloom Journey 2026: Seoul Event

This is the first paid event held outside of Japan. What differentiates this Korean event from others.

Hong Je-hee = We put a lot of effort into various aspects, but the highlight is the postcard designed with the Han River theme, which is currently receiving a lot of positive feedback. We also incorporated many elements that leverage Seoul's strengths, such as patches. Additionally, E-Land Cruise has set up a photo zone themed around Pikmin, and we have prepared other photo zones throughout Seoul as well. We hope everyone enjoys them.

Last year's tour in Korea was held in areas with high historical value. Why was Yeouido chosen for this event, and what kind of discussions were held with local authorities.

Hong Je-hee = Last year, we designed a route in Jung-gu that allowed participants to enjoy both the past and present of Seoul, from Dongdaemun to the palaces. This year, we wanted to emphasize the Han River, a symbol of Seoul. We believe the Han River is a place of rest for Seoul citizens and a location that showcases the city's beauty. We chose Yeouido so that people could enjoy Pikmin Bloom while walking along the river. While it is difficult to discuss the specifics of our collaboration with the city, we have certainly communicated effectively regarding the necessary permits.

What is the scale of participants for this event, and how are ticket sales.

Tomo Yamazaki = It is difficult to mention specific participant numbers. In terms of scale, we focus more on how many people are participating rather than revenue. Participation has exceeded our expectations.

As this is an offline event, participant safety is crucial. What preparations have been made for this.

Hong Je-hee = We prioritized safety above all else. We have many staff members deployed, including a large number along the walking routes who are patrolling the area. We have also communicated to users to act in accordance with the live event guidelines.

There is high interest from global users. Since they can enjoy tourism while playing the game, is there anything you particularly wanted to emphasize.

Hong Je-hee = We definitely have many overseas users participating. We chose Yeouido because we wanted them to enjoy the Han River; for foreigners, the Han River is a representative tourist destination in Seoul. We chose these spots because we wanted to show how citizens enjoy the river. It's even a route where you can enjoy 'Han River ramen' (laughs).

Out of the 16 spots, which is your favorite, and why was the blue hibiscus chosen as the event flower.

Hiyuki Suda = My favorite is the Han River ramen spot. I put extra heart into designing that one. As for the blue hibiscus, we chose it because we wanted something similar to Korea's national flower, the Mugunghwa. We used a different color hibiscus last time, but this time we chose blue.

What feedback did you receive from last year's event, and what was applied to this one.

Hong Je-hee = Many people were disappointed that they couldn't participate because tickets were limited. We brought this event to allow as many people as possible to join. We also added content to maintain the world-building as users follow the route.

What is the philosophy behind Pikmin Bloom's offline events.

Tomo Yamazaki = Offline events are something Niantic considers very important. Pikmin Bloom links the game to real life. Through these events, we pursue ways to help users enjoy that connection even more. Walking is the essence of the game, and just as individuals enjoy walking and playing, we think it is important to let them experience that others are joining them in that journey.

Also, when you travel from afar, you don't naturally know how people in that country spend their daily lives. However, I think it's wonderful that Pikmin Bloom allows you to discover these daily experiences as if you were finding jewels. We want to provide users with an experience that leads to new discoveries.

Hiyuki Suda = When designing the game, I try to put myself in the user's shoes. I focus on how they feel while walking down the street. Pikmin Bloom isn't a game you play while staring at the screen the whole time. I often turn on the game to leave a 'lifelog' when I discover a small but wonderful shop while walking. We prioritize providing that wonderful experience where digital and reality merge.

Hong Je-hee = I think it's important for users who usually meet online to actually meet, interact, and play the game together. Today, many users are enjoying the game while wearing visors. It's significant to see them enjoying the game in one space, whereas they usually play in their own separate locations. We are constantly thinking about how to provide more diverse experiences.

Pikmin Bloom in Korea

In Korea, Pikmin Bloom gained popularity through word-of-mouth on social media. I'd like to hear your comments on this, and whether this has happened in other countries.

Tomo Yamazaki = I believe word-of-mouth on social media was indeed the catalyst for Pikmin Bloom's success in Korea. We aim to boost Pikmin Bloom globally, not just in specific countries or regions. However, I think Korea is a very unique case. Korean users don't just experience the game by walking; they enjoy strolling with friends and sharing postcards in unique ways. How one enjoys the game is up to the individual, but Korea seems to be enjoying it in more diverse ways than we imagined.

I think Korean users will also come to enjoy the game mechanics themselves more over time. In other countries, users often fully enjoy the game content first and then experience in-game elements like postcard exchanges. Since there are so many ways to enjoy the game, I find it very interesting to see it experienced from various angles. I want to create even more features.

How is the Niantic game community perceived in Korea.

Tomo Yamazaki = We view the community as very important, and we manage how it grows on a game-by-game basis. For Pikmin Bloom, rather than us actively building it, I think it's better for users to build it naturally. We try to empathize with how users want to enjoy and shape the game.

What does the Korean market mean to Niantic? I'd also like to hear your comments on the passion of Korean users.

Tomo Yamazaki = Pikmin Bloom is a game centered on walking. Given that, I see Korea's road conditions as very friendly to our game. Every country has its own user characteristics, but Korean users enjoy interacting with each other. Many Korean users are so social that they even exchange postcards with users from other countries.

As seen in last year's event, I could see people walking the streets wearing visors and enjoying the game. I was able to learn and discover new things by actually seeing what age groups and what types of groups were playing. This is the second Korean event, and although I looked around yesterday, I intend to learn a lot more by observing the site again today.

Niantic games can be summarized as 'walk and collect.' Despite having similar goals, all your games are successful. What do you think is the characteristic feature of Pikmin Bloom.

Hiyuki Suda = We aim to coexist with all other games. We operate with the goal of being an app that melts into daily life. While collecting is one of the goals, there are many users who enjoy it in various ways and make new discoveries. We are planning various content, and we believe this will further expand the ways people enjoy the game.

Since it's a game that uses smartphone resources, there is talk about optimization. What is your long-term direction for addressing this.

Hiyuki Suda = We also consider this a very important and serious matter. We are working to improve performance, reduce the burden on devices, and solve technical issues. We are working on improvements every single day and will continue to do so.

If you were to hold the next event in Korea, is there a place you would like to visit.

Hong Je-hee = I think Korea has many attractive cities. Since we've been to Seoul twice, I'd like to go to other regions next time so more people can enjoy it. And since I live in Japan, I'd like to go to Jeju Island (laughs).

There were concerns about safety as female users shared their walking routes on social media. Some say there should be more emphasis on related guidance within the game. What are your thoughts.

Hiyuki Suda = From the beginning, we've viewed Pikmin Bloom as a game that can be played by those who haven't played much before, rather than just hardcore gamers. Therefore, we take user privacy very seriously. We have features to hide locations when capturing, and guidance regarding flower planting. We also ensure that user locations cannot be specifically identified. We will continue to implement privacy features with even greater care.

Are there specific sizes for Pikmin? Is there room for new Pikmin.

Hiyuki Suda = There are slight differences in size for each individual Pikmin you pluck. I think it's fun to look at the list and guess their sizes. As for new Pikmin, I have no comment (laughs).

Tomo Yamazaki = Ice Pikmin were added last year, considering the timing and other factors. So there are currently 8 types of Pikmin. Of course, we are well aware of user demand for other Pikmin. However, since there are many factors to consider, we would need to think carefully about the timing and form if we were to add new ones in the future. But as of now, there are no specific plans.

Lastly, please give a word to the global users who will enjoy this event.

Tomo Yamazaki = This is the second event held in Korea, and I believe it has been perfected to a point where we can confidently present it. I hope many users enjoy the event and discover more of Seoul's hidden charms.

Hiyuki Suda = I am truly grateful that Korean users enjoy the game so much. We will continue to develop the game so that users around the world, including those in Korea, can enjoy it even more. We ask for your continued love and support.

Hong Je-hee = It is an honor to be back in Seoul and see Korean users playing the game. We will do our best to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event safely until tomorrow. We hope you continue to love our game.