Sohn Kee-chung Sports Park

Library · Chungjeongno Stn. (Lines 2, 5)

Public library in Jung-gu. Free entry and reading, fully heated and air-conditioned.

Museum · Chungjeongno Stn. (Line 2)

A memorial museum housed in the former Yangjeong High School building. The actual Berlin laurel wreath is on display, and the museum connects to the forest trail in Sohn Kee-chung Sports Park.

Park · 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.

Culture space · Seoul Stn. (Lines 1, 4, Gyeongui-Jungang Line) Exit 2

A cultural complex in the restored old Seoul Station building. The Renaissance-style architecture is a sight in itself, with free special exhibitions year-round. In front of Seoul Station.

Museum · Chungjeongno Stn. (Lines 2, 5)

Opened in June 2019, this public museum in Jung-gu, Seoul stands at the crossroads outside Seosomun Gate, the official state execution ground of the Joseon dynasty. Late Joseon period.

Park · Seoul Stn. (Lines 1, 4, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

Once the execution ground at the crossroads outside Seosomun Gate, where Catholics, Donghak Peasant Revolution leaders, soldiers and other reformist figures were put to death from the 1801 Sinyu Persecution to the 1866 Byeongin Persecution

Seongdong-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.

Mapo-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.

Jongno-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.

Yeongdeungpo-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.

Yongsan-gu · Nodeul Stn. (Line 9)

A music and arts complex in the middle of the Han River. Free sunset-watching on the lawn, indoor lounge, bookshelves and exhibitions, with free concerts on summer weekends.