
Gyeongui Line Forest Park Seoul
A former train line transformed into a vibrant urban park, perfect for leisurely strolls, cafe hopping, and people-watching.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

Gyeongui Line Forest Park Seoul
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former train line transformed into a vibrant urban park, perfect for leisurely strolls, cafe hopping, and people-watching.
"This urban oasis is a beloved green space for locals, perfect for a relaxed walk and cafe hopping."

☕ Grab a Coffee
Explore the numerous cafes along Yeonnam-dong for a perfect coffee break.
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Stroll
Walk the length of the park for a refreshing urban escape.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yeonnam-dong Cafe Strip
Adjacent to Hongik University Station
Charming cafes line this vibrant stretch, perfect for coffee and people-watching.
Greenery & Streams
Throughout the park
A refreshing urban escape with well-maintained pathways, lawns, and gentle streams.
Dog-Friendly Atmosphere
Various sections of the park
A popular spot for locals to walk their dogs, offering a lively and friendly ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best for Strolls & Coffee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Grab a Coffee
Explore the numerous cafes along Yeonnam-dong for a perfect coffee break.
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Stroll
Walk the length of the park for a refreshing urban escape.
🐶 People & Dog Watching
It's a favorite spot for locals to walk their dogs.
🌸 Spring Blooms
Visit in spring for stunning cherry blossom views.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Grab a Coffee
Explore the numerous cafes along Yeonnam-dong for a perfect coffee break.
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Stroll
Walk the length of the park for a refreshing urban escape.
🐶 People & Dog Watching
It's a favorite spot for locals to walk their dogs.
🌸 Spring Blooms
Visit in spring for stunning cherry blossom views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Gyeongui Line Forest Park as a refreshing urban escape, particularly the vibrant cafe scene in Yeonnam-dong. It's praised for its dog-friendly atmosphere and suitability for leisurely strolls. Some find it can get crowded on weekends.
"Remarkably beautiful and chilled green place in the city, full of restaurants and cafes for any taste. Perfect for a walk to enjoy the day. Very pet friendly."
Bruno Abraham Lopez Berumen
"Been here with my ex lol good place for hiking but we stuck in the middle because of the muddy ground from last night rain. So we go down and ate kimbab near the small river. Lots of caterpillar so make sure you bring twigs with you (nice tip from the ajjushi there hahaha)"
마마원필
"Lovely walk! Nice to have some greenery in the city. I was hoping for something like a skywalk like a similar one in New York. But unfortunately this one is street level and still feels very much surrounded by the bustling city. Still a lovely place for a bit of a break."
Connor Lindop
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible via the Seoul subway. The closest station is Hongik University Station (Line 2, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line), which puts you right at the Yeonnam-dong section. Other stations like Gyeongui-Line Forest Park Station also serve different parts of the park.
Yes, a significant and popular section of the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is located right next to Hongik University Station, making it a convenient extension of a visit to the vibrant Hongdae area.
Line 2, the Airport Railroad, and the Gyeongui-Jungang Line all serve Hongik University Station, providing excellent access to the park.
Absolutely! The park runs alongside and through areas very close to Hongdae, making it a pleasant walk from the main Hongdae attractions.
While there are parking lots in the vicinity, especially near Hongik University Station, they can be busy and expensive. Public transport is generally recommended for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a public park and entry is completely free. You can wander through its paths and enjoy the greenery without any admission fee.
As an outdoor public park, it's generally accessible from early morning until late evening. Specific lighting might vary, but it's open for exploration throughout the day.
Weekday mornings offer a more tranquil experience. Weekends and evenings, especially near Yeonnam-dong, can be livelier with more people enjoying the cafes and atmosphere. Spring is beautiful for cherry blossoms.
Yes, the park is very pet-friendly, especially for dogs. You'll see many locals walking their furry companions. Ensure your pet is leashed and well-behaved.
There are no entrance fees for any part of the Gyeongui Line Forest Park. It's a free public space for everyone to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
The Yeonnam-dong section offers charming cafe fronts and street art. The park's green pathways, streams, and seasonal blooms (like cherry blossoms in spring) provide picturesque backdrops.
While not as dramatic as some city viewpoints, the park can offer lovely soft light during sunset, especially when filtered through the trees.
You can take photos of the general scenery and atmosphere. However, always be mindful of privacy if you intend to photograph individuals or their pets up close.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wider park scenes and cafe details. A prime lens can be good for portraits with bokeh.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. Commercial or professional shoots might require permits, so it's best to check with local authorities if planning extensive filming.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The Yeonnam-dong area adjacent to the park is famous for its trendy cafes, bakeries, and diverse restaurants offering everything from Korean to international cuisine.
While the park itself is primarily a green space, the surrounding Yeonnam-dong neighborhood is packed with unique and cozy cafes, many with outdoor seating overlooking the park.
Yes, the Yeonnam-dong stretch is known for its creative drink shops, including specialty mango drinks and other unique beverages.
While Yeonnam-dong has many trendy spots, you can also find more budget-friendly eateries and street food options if you explore a bit further from the main cafe strips.
Yes, the park has grassy areas perfect for picnics. You can grab food from nearby shops or bring your own to enjoy amidst the greenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine a visit with exploring the nearby Hongdae area, which has plenty of kid-friendly activities and restaurants. The park itself is a safe and pleasant space for a leisurely stroll, and the abundance of cafes means parents can easily grab a coffee or snack while the children enjoy the open space.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other park-goers. The Yeonnam-dong section, with its cafes, also offers opportunities for a relaxing break with your pet. It’s a truly welcoming space for animal lovers.
☕ Coffee Enthusiasts & Cafe Hoppers
Spend your time strolling through the park and then popping into different cafes to sample their offerings. It’s the perfect way to experience the local cafe culture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this popular Seoul neighborhood.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of a Railway Line
The park's layout follows the original train tracks, creating a long, narrow green corridor. This unique shape means it's not a single large park but rather a series of interconnected green spaces, each with its own character. It's a testament to how urban planning can repurpose disused infrastructure into valuable community assets, offering a much-needed respite from the bustling city.
This transformation has also spurred the growth of trendy cafes, boutiques, and art spaces along its edges, especially in Yeonnam-dong. The park has become a social hub, a place for leisurely walks, dog-walking, and simply enjoying the outdoors within the urban landscape. It’s a popular spot for locals seeking a moment of calm or a pleasant place to meet friends.
Experiencing Yeonnam-dong's Charm
Many visitors describe Yeonnam-dong as having a more relaxed and artistic vibe compared to the more boisterous Hongdae. It’s a favorite spot for locals to unwind, meet friends, and enjoy the city's creative pulse. The park’s presence enhances this atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape right next to the bustling streets. You might even find a quirky mango drink shop here!
When visiting Yeonnam-dong, consider dedicating ample time to wander through the park and its surrounding alleys. It’s the perfect place to people-watch, especially the many dogs being walked by their owners, and to discover hidden gems that offer a true taste of Seoul's contemporary culture.
Seasonal Beauty and Atmosphere
During summer, the park provides a welcome shade with its mature trees, offering a cooler escape from the heat. The lush greenery is at its peak, and the gentle streams add a soothing element to the environment. It’s an ideal time for a relaxed walk or a picnic on the grass.
As autumn arrives, the park transforms with the changing colors of the leaves, offering a warm and inviting palette. The crisp air makes it perfect for long walks, and the golden hues create a beautiful, serene setting. Even in winter, the park retains its charm, with bare trees creating interesting silhouettes and a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit