Seoul Zoo Seoul
Discover Seoul Zoo within the vast Seoul Grand Park, a beautiful escape offering diverse animals and stunning natural landscapes, especially in autumn...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning foliage & fewer crowds
Seoul Zoo Seoul
Best Time
Stunning foliage & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Seoul Zoo within the vast Seoul Grand Park, a beautiful escape offering diverse animals and stunning natural landscapes, especially in autumn.
"The park's scenery is beautiful with fall leaves, a great alternative to crowded spots!"
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive park and zoo grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Seoul Grand Park is located on a mountain, so dress in layers, especially during cooler seasons. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Autumn Scenery
Seoul Grand Park
Witness a breathtaking display of fall colors, making the zoo a picturesque escape. A truly beautiful setting for animal encounters .

Diverse Animal Encounters
Various enclosures
Explore a wide array of animals, from majestic tigers to playful primates. A hit with families and animal lovers alike .

Expansive Park Grounds
Seoul Grand Park
Beyond the zoo, discover beautiful flower gardens and vast green spaces perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic .
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Fall Foliage
Weekday Visits for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive park and zoo grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Seoul Grand Park is located on a mountain, so dress in layers, especially during cooler seasons. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The park's natural beauty, especially in autumn, offers fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
A great outing for families with young children, offering a chance to see animals and enjoy the outdoors. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive park and zoo grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Seoul Grand Park is located on a mountain, so dress in layers, especially during cooler seasons. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The park's natural beauty, especially in autumn, offers fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
A great outing for families with young children, offering a chance to see animals and enjoy the outdoors. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Seoul Zoo offers a beautiful natural setting, especially during autumn, with a diverse range of animals. Visitors appreciate the scenic park grounds and the opportunity for outdoor recreation. However, some concerns have been raised regarding animal welfare, which is a point of consideration for some visitors.
"Amazing zoo. They had what looked like a storm hit before my visit, but they were working hard to open some of the exhibits back up. They have an amazing large cat sanctuary and the red pandas are fun to watch. The paths are wide enough even with large crowds, it feels open."
Brandon Montang
"Probably the most picturesque zoo I’ve ever visited with an impressive range of animals set in an expansive natural-looking environment. Getting to the zoo proper is a highlight in itself as a sky lift takes you over a river and treats you to a majestic view of the mountains. Wear your tracking shoes as the zoo is set on a mountain which means lots of uphill/downhill walking which is not exactly made for older visitors. With a zoo like this you really need to plan your path in advance to minimise unnecessary commuting and to maximise animal sightings. The zoo didn’t disappoint though and the animals looked happy in their large enclosures. I wish they had more staff located around the zoo that can provide directions and water coolers to refill bottles. If you’re using the Seoul Discovery Pass, present your pass at the sky lift counter on the far left in exchange for the sky lift and zoo tickets (seriously the Discovery Pass instructions are far from clear). In all, a very special zoo that earns a place in any Seoul visit."
Michael Ong
"The zoo is huge. We ride the overhead cable train twice to go from end-to-end, but it was so enjoyable that I get to see enclosed animals from above! Definitely my go-to again in the future!"
VintVoo20
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Seoul Zoo is by taking the Seoul Subway Line 4 to the 'Seoul Grand Park Station'. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance. You can also find bus routes that stop near the park.
Yes, Seoul Grand Park is very well-connected by public transport. Subway Line 4 is the most convenient option, with a station directly serving the park.
Once inside Seoul Grand Park, you can walk to the zoo or utilize the park's internal shuttle bus system to cover longer distances, especially if you have young children or limited mobility.
Yes, Seoul Grand Park offers parking facilities. However, public transport is generally recommended to avoid potential traffic and parking hassles, especially on busy days.
Seoul Zoo is located within Seoul Grand Park, which is accessible from downtown Seoul via subway in approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a convenient day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Seoul Zoo are generally affordable. While specific prices can vary, expect them to be reasonable for a day of family fun. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
While online ticket purchasing options might be available, buying tickets at the entrance is also a common and straightforward method. Check the official Seoul Grand Park website for the latest information on booking.
Seoul Zoo typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to confirm the exact Seoul Zoo hours before your visit.
Seoul Grand Park itself is a large public space, but there is an admission fee specifically for the Seoul Zoo. The park grounds outside the zoo are generally free to enter.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or group bookings. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official Seoul Grand Park website for any ongoing promotions or discount eligibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Seoul Zoo houses a diverse collection of animals, including mammals like elephants, tigers, lions, and primates, as well as birds and reptiles. Visitors often enjoy seeing the variety of species.
Absolutely! The zoo's natural setting, especially during autumn, provides beautiful backdrops for photography. Capture the animals in their habitats and the scenic park views.
To fully explore Seoul Zoo and enjoy the surrounding park, plan for at least half a day. If you wish to explore other attractions within Seoul Grand Park, allocate a full day.
Yes, Seoul Zoo is generally family-friendly, with amenities like restrooms and open spaces. It's a popular destination for families with young children.
Seoul Zoo offers a blend of animal viewing and natural scenery. While some visitors have expressed concerns about animal welfare,
many find the park's setting beautiful, especially during the fall.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually food stalls and cafes within Seoul Zoo and Seoul Grand Park offering snacks, light meals, and beverages. You can find options for a quick bite during your visit.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted in Seoul Grand Park, allowing for picnics in designated areas. This can be a budget-friendly option.
Expect typical park fare such as Korean snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. For a wider variety of dining experiences, you might explore options outside the immediate zoo area within Seoul Grand Park.
Options might be limited, but you can often find fruit, snacks, or simple rice dishes. Bringing your own vegetarian or vegan-friendly snacks is a good idea if you have specific dietary needs.
Food prices within tourist attractions can be slightly higher than average. Packing your own snacks or a picnic can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The zoo's natural landscapes, especially during autumn, offer stunning backdrops. Look for scenic viewpoints overlooking animal enclosures and the park's rolling hills.
Yes, photography of the animals is generally allowed, but always be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions. Avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the animals.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance. For landscape shots of the park, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. A smartphone camera is also great for casual shots.
While general photography is permitted, some specific exhibits or areas might have restrictions. Always observe signage and respect the animals' environment.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This is also when animals are often more active.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up, or enjoy the casual dining options available within the park. Weekday visits are recommended to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. The beautiful scenery, especially in autumn, adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it a memorable outing for the whole family.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Utilizing public transportation like the subway is the most cost-effective way to reach Seoul Grand Park. Once there, walking is free and allows you to fully appreciate the park's beauty. While there are shuttle buses, they come with a small fee, so assess if walking is feasible for your itinerary and energy levels.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light, which can significantly enhance your photos. A zoom lens is highly recommended for capturing clear shots of the animals from a distance, while a wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive park scenery. Be mindful of any photography restrictions and always prioritize the animals' well-being by avoiding flash photography when not permitted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Seoul Grand Park
Navigating Seoul Grand Park can involve a significant amount of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential. For those with limited mobility or traveling with young children, the park offers an internal shuttle bus service to help cover the distances between attractions. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, with many visitors highlighting the stunning scenery, particularly the vibrant foliage during the fall months. This makes it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a day surrounded by nature.
While the zoo itself is a major attraction, the overall experience of Seoul Grand Park adds significant value. It's a place where you can combine animal encounters with outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. Planning your visit to include time to explore beyond the zoo enclosures will enhance your overall experience of this popular Seoul destination.
Animal Welfare Concerns at Seoul Zoo
It's worth noting that Seoul Grand Park is a large facility, and the conditions can vary across different enclosures. Visitors who are particularly sensitive to animal welfare issues may wish to research specific exhibits or consider alternative attractions that prioritize animal well-being. Community discussions on platforms like Reddit sometimes touch upon these sensitive topics, offering varied perspectives from visitors who have experienced the zoo firsthand.
For those who choose to visit, being an observant and informed visitor is key. Understanding the potential welfare issues can help shape your experience and encourage thoughtful reflection on the role of zoos. Many visitors still appreciate the opportunity to see animals and enjoy the park's natural beauty, but it's a decision that involves weighing different factors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit