
Best Parks & Green Spaces in Seoul, Korea, South

1. Namsan Park
Located in the heart of Seoul, Namsan Park offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the iconic N Seoul Tower. It provides a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling capital, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature. The park also transforms beautifully with the changing seasons, showcasing vibrant cherry blossoms in spring and vivid foliage in autumn.
- Ease of Access: Centrally located, easily reachable by public transport.
- Cultural Experience: Home to the N Seoul Tower, a symbol of Seoul.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers spectacular views of the city skyline.
- Seasonal Highlights: Stunning during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
- Recreation Opportunities: Hiking trails and picnic spots available.

2. Hangang Park
Spanning along the Han River, Hangang Park features numerous recreational spots, including bicycle paths and picnic areas. The park consists of several sections, each offering unique experiences like water sports, concerts, and open-air movies. It serves as an urban oasis, providing relief from city stress.
- Variety of Activities: Offers cycling, water sports, and cultural events.
- River Views: Beautiful river vistas enhance relaxation.
- Nightlife: Unique evening events like concerts and movie screenings.
- Accessibility: Easily accessed from multiple points across the city.
- Family Friendly: Suitable facilities for children and families.

3. Seoul Forest
Once a royal hunting ground, Seoul Forest is now a multipurpose park featuring artistic installations, an eco-forest, and deer observatories. It allows visitors to escape into nature without leaving the city and serves as a hub for cultural and ecological educational activities.
- Diverse Attractions: Art installations and deer observatories provide varied interests.
- Environmental Focus: Emphasis on ecological education and nature preservation.
- Urban Wildlife: Opportunities to see free-roaming deer within the park.
- Proximity: Located in the heart of Seoul, easy to access.
- Educational Programs: Workshops and events for learning about nature.

4. Bukchon Hanok Village
While not a traditional park, this historical village nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces offers a unique green space with traditional Korean homes, or hanoks. Walking through its narrow alleys offers a glimpse into Seoul's past along with views of tranquil gardens.
- Historical Significance: Rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture.
- Unique Neighborhood: Walk through preserved hanok homes and gardens.
- Scenic Views: Offers photo opportunities with a backdrop of nature and city.
- Cultural Events: Participate in traditional activities and workshops.
- Close Proximity: Situated near major palaces and cultural sites.

5. Olympic Park
Built for the 1988 Summer Olympics, this vast park includes numerous monuments, sports facilities, and open spaces. It’s perfect for sports enthusiasts and those looking for a scenic place to relax in nature. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, art installations, and musical events year-round.
- Historical Venue: Built for a historic global sporting event.
- Art and Culture: Home to large-scale sculptures and art installations.
- Recreational Opportunities: Facilities for various sports and games.
- Event Hosting: Venue for concerts and cultural festivals.
- Accessibility: Well-connected with public transportation.

6. Bukhansan National Park
This national park is a paradise for hikers with its rugged granite peaks and diverse trails. Just a short distance from the city center, it offers a complete escape for nature lovers and features historic sites like Bukhansanseong Fortress.
- Hiking Adventure: Diverse trails offer various levels of difficulty.
- Geological Interest: Spectacular rock formations and panoramic views.
- Proximity to Seoul: Easily accessible despite being a national park.
- Cultural Sites: Includes ancient forts and temples.
- Biodiversity: Home to numerous plant and animal species.

7. Yeouido Park
Situated in Seoul's financial district, Yeouido Park offers a peaceful environment with walking paths, gardens, and a cycle track. It's popular during spring for its cherry blossom festivals and provides a contrasting respite amidst skyscrapers.
- Cherry Blossoms: Famous for springtime cherry blossom festivals.
- Urban Green Space: Green oasis amidst commercial skyscrapers.
- Cycling Facilities: Dedicated paths available for biking.
- Accessibility: Centrally located, easy to reach via public transport.
- Seasonal Events: Hosts various festivals and market events.

8. Seonyudo Park
Located on an island in the Han River, Seonyudo Park is known for its unique blend of industrial and natural landscapes, with an eco-friendly design. The park features botanical gardens, greenhouses, and views over the river.
- Unique Atmosphere: Combines industrial heritage with natural beauty.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Incorporates sustainable and ecological features.
- Botanical Focus: Extensive collection of plant species and gardens.
- Island Location: Offers compelling views of Seoul from the river.
- Educational Tours: Provides guided tours explaining ecology and sustainability.

9. Haneul Park
Situated in World Cup Park, Haneul Park, or "Sky Park," offers spectacular views of Seoul from its hilltop location. It's known for fields of silver grass, especially beautiful in autumn, and provides an ideal spot for photography and peaceful walks.
- Scenic Vistas: Elevated position offers panoramic views of the city.
- Seasonal Beauty: Silver grass fields create a stunning autumn landscape.
- Photography Hotspot: Ideal location for capturing Seoul's skyline.
- Part of Larger Park Complex: Accessible through World Cup Park trails.
- Limited Accessibility: Requires a climb but there are transportation options available.

10. Naksan Park
Naksan Park is set on an incline offering panoramic views of downtown Seoul, making it popular among photography enthusiasts. It's also part of the Seoul City Wall trail, providing historical insights along with its scenic beauty.
- Historical Context: Includes the Seoul City Wall and historical exhibits.
- Panoramic Views: Offers sweeping cityscapes from elevated positions.
- Cultural Significance: Rich with historical and cultural elements.
- Nighttime Strolls: Popular for illuminated walks in the evening.
- Art Presence: Features artistic contributions along the walkways.

11. Gyeongui Line Forest Park
This linear park follows a section of an old railway line, creating a green corridor through several neighborhoods in Seoul. It provides a delightful walking or cycling path, connecting cultural centers and cafes.
- Urban Transformation: Utilizes an old railway track for green development.
- Connectivity: Links different neighborhoods with a continuous green space.
- Leisurely Strolls: Flat paths ideal for walks and cycling.
- Local Culture: Access to cafes and cultural venues along the route.
- Community Hub: Frequently used for local gatherings and activities.

12. Samcheong Park
Located near the historic neighborhoods of Bukchon, Samcheong Park provides serene wooded trails with stunning views of the mountains and city. It’s a favorite among those seeking a relaxing escape without venturing too far.
- Proximity to Historic Sites: Near Bukchon and cultural landmarks.
- Serene Hiking: Offers quieter, lesser-known trails through the forest.
- Elevated Views: Beautiful lookout points over Seoul and beyond.
- Natural Architecture: Combines city views with lush forest surroundings.
- Tranquil Getaway: Less crowded compared to other urban parks.

13. Childrens’ Grand Park
This expansive park offers family-friendly attractions including a zoo, amusement facilities, and gardens. It's designed particularly with children in mind but is a refreshing spot for all ages to unwind.
- Family Oriented: Dedicated facilities and attractions for children and families.
- Variety of Attractions: Amusement rides and a small zoo.
- Educational Component: Programs and exhibitions for children.
- Scenic Beauty: Manicured gardens and open green spaces.
- Accessibility: Conveniently located in the city with easy transport links.

14. Cheonggyecheon Stream
This 11-kilometer stream running through downtown Seoul is an innovative urban renewal project, offering a refreshing break with its clear waters and greenery. It has become a popular spot for leisurely walks and date nights.
- Urban Renewal Success: Restoration of a stream into a flourishing public space.
- Central Location: Positioned centrally within the city's business district.
- Romantic Atmosphere: Popular for evening strolls with ambient lighting.
- Public Art: Displays several art installations along the walkway.
- Multi-Use: Hosts events and is a favorite for walking or relaxing.

15. Bongeunsa Temple Grounds
Next to modern high-rises, the Bongeunsa Temple provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. The contrast between its gardens and surrounding Seoul is striking, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life within the city.
- Spiritual Oasis: Combines meditation spaces and decorative gardens.
- Architectural Beauty: Traditional Buddhist architecture amidst modernity.
- Location Convenience: Situated near COEX Mall and public transit.
- Cultural Insight: Offers temple stays and cultural experiences.
- Natural Tranquility: Quiet gardens and reflection ponds offer retreat.

16. Agra City Park (formerly Waryong Park)
Located in the north of Seoul, it provides visitors with beautiful walking trails and views of the city as well as Mt. Inwangsan. The park is perfect for hikers and those interested in panoramic views.
- Elevated Park: Situated at a higher altitude for stunning vistas.
- Hiking and Exploration: Trails cater to both leisurely walks and hikes.
- Cultural Viewpoints: Includes historical points of interest along trails.
- Great for Photography: Ideal locations for photos of the skyline.
- Nature Meets City: Combines urban and natural environments seamlessly.

17. Sky Garden (Seoul Station 7017)
An elevated park above the streets near Seoul Station, this linear sky garden features hundreds of plant species and thematic garden rooms. It provides a novel way to see the city from above while experiencing flora diversity.
- Elevated Structure: Offers unique views of the Seoul cityscape.
- Botanical Diversity: Features a wide range of plant species in themed sections.
- Accessibility: Easy to reach from Seoul Station, making it very convenient.
- Night Lighting: Beautifully illuminated, offering a different perspective at night.
- Urban Innovation: An example of creative city redevelopment.

18. Citizen’s Forest
Situated near the Yangjaecheon Stream, Citizen’s Forest serves as a tranquil green space with broad lawns and thick woods, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. It offers a serene environment that's conducive to relaxation and family outings.
- Open Spaces: Large grassy fields ideal for various recreational activities.
- Wooded Areas: Provides wooded trails for peaceful, natural walks.
- Family-friendly: Plenty of room and activities suitable for families.
- Central Setting: Easily accessible from various parts of the city.
- Picnic Areas: Designated spots for picnics and gatherings.

19. Dosan Park
A small, elegant park dedicated to independence activist Dosan Ahn Chang-ho, it's known for its tranquility and beautiful grounds. It offers a quiet space for reflection amidst the busy Gangnam district.
- Historical Dedication: Pays tribute to an important Korean figure.
- Urban Retreat: Offers serenity in the bustling Gangnam area.
- Garden Design: Features carefully manicured gardens and peaceful spots.
- Close to Entertainment: Near numerous shops and restaurants.
- Ideal for Resting: Known for its tranquil ambiance, ideal for unwinding.

20. Dream Forest
Covering a large area in the northern part of Seoul, Dream Forest offers a variety of facilities, including an observatory, art center, and spacious open fields. It is less crowded than other parks, making it a peaceful getaway from the city’s busy life.
- Less Crowded: Offers a more secluded experience away from large crowds.
- Wide-ranging Facilities: Includes an observatory and cultural spaces.
- Family Activities: Plenty of space for family outings and picnics.
- Scenic Overviews: Features observation decks for panoramic views.
- Year-round Access: Open throughout the year with seasonal activities.