Seoul Forest is a large urban park in Seongsu-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, built on land that was once a royal hunting ground, then Seoul's first water purification plant (1908) and a horse racetrack, before opening as a public park in 2005. It is divided into several zones — a Culture and Arts Park, Ecological Forest, Wetland Ecology Park, Experiential Learning Park and Hangang Waterside Park — with a Sika deer enclosure and tree-lined walking paths as its signature draws. Admission is free, and it sits right next to the trendy Seongsu-dong cafe district, making it easy to combine a stroll with a day out.
The Sika deer enclosure in the Ecological Forest, a symbol of the park where deer roam among the trees
Spring cherry blossoms and tulips, typically peaking late March to early April with tulips following
The golden ginkgo-lined path and autumn foliage, a favorite photo spot in fall
Windy Hill and the ~750m elevated pedestrian skywalk overlooking the deer and wetlands
Traces of the former racetrack (racehorse statues), plus wetland gardens and gallery grounds for year-round interest
Good to know
RulesSince 2020, selling and hand-feeding deer food has been fully stopped for the deer's health and to prevent bites and stress. Do not feed the deer any food or feed.
RulesPets must be leashed (within 2m) and cleaned up after; violations can each draw a fine (about 50,000 won).
RulesBicycles and other ride-on items are barred from lawns, flower gardens and narrow paths, and must be ridden slowly elsewhere. Pitching tents (including sunshade tents) is prohibited.
MannersStay off the flower beds and protected lawn areas, and do not chase, startle or crowd the deer to get closer.
SeasonSummer midday offers little shade in open areas, so heat and sun exposure add up — bring water and a hat, and consider mosquito protection near the wetlands.
SafetyIt gets very crowded during cherry-blossom season and on weekends, and the ~211-space car park fills fast; use public transport and mind your belongings.
Practical info
About a 2–3 min walk from Seoul Forest Station (Suin-Bundang Line, Exit 3/4), or ~10 min from Ttukseom Station (Line 2, Exit 8). Admission is free and the park grounds are generally open at all times, though some facilities (Ecological Forest, insect/butterfly gardens) have set hours and close Mondays. Parking is limited (roughly 200 won per 5 min for small cars), so public transit is recommended. Confirm fees, hours and closures on the official site before visiting.
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