Photo: Seoul Parks (Seoul Metropolitan Government)
세종로공원
Park · Jongno-gu
A green space along Sejong-daero, the nation's central axis (Gyeongbokgung Palace–Gwanghwamun–Sejong Center–Cheonggyecheon–Seoul Plaza). Once run-down and closed off with limited public access, it was reborn as an open park linked to Gwanghwamun Square, creating a new
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Source: parks.seoul.go.kr
The Story of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin
FreeMuseum · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)
An exhibition space in the heart of Gwanghwamun where history comes alive, devoted to King Sejong, the 4th king of Joseon, and Admiral Yi Sun-sin of the Imjin War, the two figures Koreans most respect and take pride in.
National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
FreeMuseum · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5) Exit 2
A free modern history museum facing Gwanghwamun Square. Insider tip: the rooftop viewpoint takes in Gyeongbokgung and the square at a glance.
Gwanghwamun Square
FreePlaza · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)
A downtown plaza with Gyeongbokgung Palace as its backdrop. In summer the ground fountains and water channels invite splashing. Shaded rest areas, drinking fountains and toilets on site.
Gwanghwamun Citizens' Open Square
FreePark · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
A rest spot for Seoul's citizens created on the site of the old Yukjo Street at Gwanghwamun. It takes in Yukjo Madang to the northeast, a modern re-creation of Yukjo Street, a citizens' rest area to the southwest, and the open space at the center
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3) Exit 5
Joseon's foremost royal palace. Free on the last Wednesday of the month or in hanbok. The changing of the guard ceremony (10:00 and 14:00) is always free.
Sujeongjeon Hall at Gyeongbokgung Palace
FreeHistoric site · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
Sujeongjeon stands west of Geunjeongjeon, with Gyeonghoeru Pavilion to its north.
Seoul Forest
FreeSeongdong-gu · Seoul Forest Stn. (Suin-Bundang Line)
A large ecological park in the middle of the city. Lots of mature trees, shade and benches, with drinking fountains and toilets throughout, so summer walks are comfortable.
Gyeongui Line Forest Park
FreeMapo-gu · Hongik Univ. Stn. (Line 2, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
A 6.3 km linear park on a former railway. The Yeonnam-dong stretch, nicknamed Yeontral Park, strings together shade, lawns and cafes. Few drinking fountains, so bring water.
Seoullo 7017
FreeJung-gu · Seoul Station Stn. (Lines 1, 4, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
An elevated garden walkway converted from an old overpass, with planters, benches, a foot bath and drinking fountains. Lovely at night, so an evening stroll beats midday.
Naksan Park
FreeJongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4)
A hilltop park along the Seoul City Wall trail, known for city night views and sunsets. Carry water for the climb.
Seonyudo Park
FreeYeongdeungpo-gu · Seonyudo Stn. (Line 9)
An ecological park on an island in the Han, built from a former water treatment plant. Ivy-covered structures and green gardens, reached by the Rainbow Bridge, with many shaded paths.