The Parks of Seoul – and no, not Park Min-Young, Park Seo-Jun, or Park Jimin…. but actual parks and green spaces. Seoul is full of them and here are just some of our favourites!
Seoul Forest (서울숲): Seoul Forest is a large urban park located in the heart of the city. It features vast green spaces, walking trails, a butterfly garden, a deer enclosure, and themed gardens. The park also has cultural facilities, including art galleries and an ecological education centre.
Namsan Park (남산공원): Namsan Park surrounds Namsan Mountain, offering panoramic views of Seoul from its summit. Talk a picnic, walk the trails, visit the gardens, pagodas, and historical sites such as N Seoul Tower and relax away from the hustle and bustle below. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to the top of the mountain, or perhaps take the bus up and walk down. For couples visiting, why not buy a lock and place it at the top of the mountain to show your love for each other!
Hangang Park (한강공원): Hangang Park stretches along the banks of the Han River, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. The park features cycling paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Visitors can also enjoy river cruises and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Olympic Park (올림픽공원): Olympic Park was built to commemorate the 1988 Summer Olympics held in Seoul. With vast green spaces, walking paths, sports facilities, and sculptures, this is a beautiful place to wile away a few hours. It also houses the Olympic Museum, displaying artifacts and memorabilia from the games which is worth a visit.
Gyeongui Line Forest Park (경의선숲길): Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a linear park built along a former railway line with walking and cycling paths, landscaped gardens, and cultural spaces. The park connects various neighbourhoods in Seoul and offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도한강공원): Yeouido Hangang Park is located on Yeouido Island along the Han River, with riverside promenades, cycling paths, and recreational facilities. It is also known for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom in spring, attracting crowds of visitors.
Seonyudo Park (선유도공원): Seonyudo Park is a former water purification plant transformed into a scenic park full of ecological ponds, pathways and relaxing spaces. The park is known for its innovative design and sustainable landscaping.
These parks in Seoul offer a diverse range of recreational activities and natural beauty, providing residents and visitors with opportunities to escape the urban hustle and bustle while enjoying outdoor leisure in the city.
