Olympic Park in Seoul is a vast and multifaceted public park built to commemorate the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Spanning approximately 1.45 million square meters, it’s not just a park but a sprawling complex offering a blend of sports facilities, cultural attractions, historical sites, and recreational areas, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Key Features:
Legacy of the Olympics: The park houses several of the original stadiums and venues used during the 1988 Olympics, some of which still host sporting events and concerts today, such as the KSPO Dome (formerly Olympic Gymnastics Arena), the Olympic Swimming Pool, and the Olympic Tennis Courts.
Historical Significance: The park’s grounds encompass Mongchontoseong Fortress, an ancient earthen fortification dating back to the Baekje Dynasty (18 BCE – 660 CE). The remains of this historical site are preserved within the park, offering a glimpse into Seoul’s ancient past. You can explore the Mongchon History Museum and the Seoul Baekje Museum located within the park to learn more about this era.
Arts and Culture: Olympic Park boasts a rich cultural scene. It is home to the SOMA Museum of Art, which features modern and contemporary art exhibitions, and an impressive outdoor Sculpture Park with over 200 pieces by artists from around the world. The Olympic Museum showcases the history of the Olympic Games, with a focus on the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
Recreational Spaces: The park offers extensive green spaces, walking and cycling paths, and serene lakes, providing a welcome escape from the city bustle. Popular areas include the Rose Garden, the Wild Flower Garden, and the iconic “One Tree Hill,” a solitary tree that has become a beloved symbol of the park. The Mongchon Moat Musical Fountain offers captivating water shows set to music.
World Peace Gate: This grand archway, designed by architect Kim Chung-up, serves as a symbolic entrance to the park and represents the spirit of peace and harmony of the Olympic Games.
Top Nine Highlights: The park highlights nine must-see spots, including the World Peace Gate, The Thumb sculpture, the Musical Fountain, One Tree Hill, and the Rose Plaza.
Visiting Information:
Location: 424, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Getting There: Easily accessible via Seoul Subway Lines 5 (Olympic Park Station), 8 (Mongchontoseong Station), and 9 (Hanseong Baekje Station, Olympic Park Station).
Operating Hours: Pedestrian and bicycle access: 05:00 – 22:00 (Plaza area until 24:00). Vehicle access: 06:00 – 22:00. Note: Entry to most of the park is prohibited after 22:00 for safety.
Admission Fee: Free to enter the park. Separate fees may apply for some museums and facilities within the park.
Olympic Park is a sprawling and diverse destination offering something for everyone, whether you’re interested in sports history, art and culture, or simply a relaxing day out in nature.
