A Winter Pause in the City's Heart: Walking Yeouido Park, Seoul

In the midst of the bustling Yeouido district—often called the "Manhattan of Seoul"—where finance, politics, and media converge, lies a vast green sanctuary. As the cold winter air settles over the dome of the National Assembly and the skyscrapers light up the evening sky, Yeouido Park offers a quiet, cozy retreat from the urban rush.

Join us for a serene winter walk through this historic park where nature and the city skyline coexist in perfect harmony.

From Airfield to Urban Oasis

Yeouido Park isn't just a green space; it's a site layered with modern Korean history.

• The Runway Past: Before it was a park, this vast stretch of land was an airfield. In 1922, aviator An Chang-nam inspired dreams of independence here with his aerial feats. In 1945, C-47 transport planes landed here carrying key figures of the Korean Provisional Government returning home. You can still see a C-47 transport plane exhibited in the Culture Square (Munhwa-ui Madang) as a tribute to this history.

• The Plaza Era: For decades, this area served as a massive asphalt plaza for major national events, from Pope John Paul II's visit to the tearful family reunions broadcast live in the 1980s.

• The Green Transformation: In 1999, the asphalt was removed to create the lush forest and park we see today.

Winter Walking Highlights

While famous for its spring cherry blossoms, Yeouido Park in winter has a unique, contemplative charm.

• Cycling & Strolling: The park features separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. You can easily rent a "Ttareungyi" (Seoul Public Bike) near Yeouido Station or Yeouinaru Station to ride the 2.5km loop. (Safety tip: Keep it slow, under 20km/h, to truly take in the view!)

• Ecological Pond: Walk along the wooden decks to find the peaceful Ecological Pond. Even in winter, you might spot magpies grooming themselves near the water.

• The "Seoul" Pond: Located between the Statue of King Sejong and the Traditional Forest, there is a pond shaped exactly like the map of Seoul! Check the park guide map to trace the outlines of the city in water.

• Hidden Gems: Look out for the 150-year-old mulberry tree and the special gardens maintained by citizen gardeners, remnants of past garden expos.

A New Landmark: "SEOULDAL" (Moon of Seoul)

Floating above the park is a new icon - the SEOULDAL.

What is it? A helium balloon ride that lifts you vertically into the sky.

The View: From up high, you get a stunning bird's-eye view of the park, the Han River, Mapo Bridge, and the glittering skyscrapers of Yeouido. It operates day and night, offering two completely different vibes of the city.

Visitors Information

• Location: 68, Yeouigongwon-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul.
• Access:

• Yeouido Station (Line 5 & 9) or National Assembly Station (Line 9): ~8 min walk.
• Yeouinaru Station (Line 5): ~8 min walk.

SEOULDAL (Balloon Ride)

• Location: Lawn Plaza (Jandi Madang) inside Yeouido Park.
• Hours: Tue - Sun, 12:00 – 22:00 (Closed Mondays) • Price: Adults 25,000 KRW / Teens & Seniors 20,000 KRW / Children 15,000 KRW

Reference: Seoul Newsletter