Tapgol Park Seoul
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Tapgol Park Seoul

3.8
·3k reviews·, South Korea

Historic Seoul park featuring an ancient pagoda, a traditional pavilion, and a 'Squid Game' filming site.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Tapgol Park Seoul

Tapgol Park Seoul

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Seoul park featuring an ancient pagoda, a traditional pavilion, and a 'Squid Game' filming site.

3.8
(3k reviews)

"A peaceful historical gem in Seoul, perfect for a quiet stroll and a touch of pop culture."

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TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Seoul is best explored on foot. Prioritize comfort over style for your feet!

📜 Learn Park History

Tapgol Park has a rich history, including its role in Korean independence movements.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

10-Story Stone Pagoda

10-Story Stone Pagoda

Tapgol Park

Marvel at this ancient, protected stone pagoda, a significant historical artifact.

Traditional Octagonal Pavilion

Traditional Octagonal Pavilion

Tapgol Park

Relax under the shade of this classic Korean pavilion, a peaceful spot for reflection.

Squid Game Filming Spot

Squid Game Filming Spot

Tapgol Park

Visit the iconic location where the recruiter offered games in the hit series 'Squid Game'.

Instagram+2
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace Comfortable Footwear

Seoul involves a lot of walking! Many travelers recommend ditching heels for comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore parks and markets. You'll be on your feet a lot, so prioritize comfort for a better experience. TikTok

Consider a Transit Pass

Getting around Seoul is easy with public transport. A T-Money card or a Discover Seoul Pass can save you money and hassle on buses and subways, making it simpler to hop between attractions like Tapgol Park and other city sights. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Observe local life and Janggi players
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Some of the must see places in Seoul 🇰🇷🫣 Book your travel activities on @Klook Philippines ‼️ Save more than 50% discount if you will purchase the Discover Seoul Pass or Klook Pass Seoul. This gives ...
@thatsojameela
98.1K likes • 2.6M views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Seoul is best explored on foot. Prioritize comfort over style for your feet! TikTok

📜 Learn Park History

Tapgol Park has a rich history, including its role in Korean independence movements. Reddit

5 things you should know before traveling to Seoul 기후동행카드 [gi-hu-dong-haeng] Card -> which is the unlimited public transportation card Card: 3,000 won 1 day: 5,000 won 2 days: 8,000 won 3 days: 10,000...
@koreanbong
71.9K likes • 771.6K views
I would eat the bread in front of them 🙄 TAPGOLPARK 📍99 Jong-ro, Jongno District, Seoul Thank you for the Squid game spot tour @seoul_hallyu @visitseoul_globalseoulmate @visitseoul_official #squi...
_dan.kim
423 likes • 8.1K views

📸 Squid Game Fan Spot

See where the iconic 'ddakji' scene was filmed for the Netflix series. Instagram+2

👴 Observe Local Life

Many elderly locals gather here to socialize and play Janggi (Korean chess). Reddit

This is where the Ddakji guy destroyed all the red bean buns in Seoul @squidgamenetflix #fyp #gongyoo #squidgame #ddakji #koreatravel #kdrama #tapgolpark #squidgame2 #squidgame3 #오징어게임 #탑골공원
emmaunnie
104 likes • 4.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Seoul is best explored on foot. Prioritize comfort over style for your feet! TikTok

📜 Learn Park History

Tapgol Park has a rich history, including its role in Korean independence movements. Reddit

📸 Squid Game Fan Spot

See where the iconic 'ddakji' scene was filmed for the Netflix series. Instagram+2

👴 Observe Local Life

Many elderly locals gather here to socialize and play Janggi (Korean chess). Reddit

🗺️ Explore Nearby Areas

Tapgol Park is close to Insadong and Ikseondong, great for further exploration. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Tapgol Park to be a historically significant and peaceful urban oasis, offering a glimpse into Korean heritage and local life. Its connection to 'Squid Game' adds a unique pop culture appeal. While some find it a bit quiet, its accessibility and free entry make it a worthwhile stop.

"I walked past this park and found it oddly familiar, so I decided to look it up. Little did I know, it was the filming location for a notable Squid Game Season 2 scene where Gong Yoo offered people living on the streets a choice between food or a lottery ticket.

The park was peaceful and well-maintained. There was a large crowd of elderly folks strolling around and relaxing. I was also amazed by the beautiful pagoda at the end of the park—it seems to be a historical structure.

Cool place to check out!"

Kenshin

"Accidentally stumbled upon this place but it turned out to be the shooting spot for one of the iconic scenes in Squid Games 2! Peaceful atmosphere for a stroll. But it's a pretty small park."

Lavaniya Ilango

"Be careful when you're here!

This is a beautiful park which commemorates the Korean independence movement. The vibe is nice and chill, people chatting or playing chess.

A ridiculously handsome man came up to me and asked me to pick between a bun and lottery ticket. Being a betting guy I picked the lottery ticket instead. Although disappointed, the ridiculously handsome guy gave me that delicious salt bun you see in that picture. He then asked me to visit his house next time to play a fun game of Russian Roulette. I declined because I was with my wife then. He did leave me a calling card with geometric shapes and phone number.

Such a nice man. Although I did saw him stomp on the buns on the way out. He must be stressed from work. That or those buns must be expired or something. Such civic-mindedness to flatten your trash first before disposing them."

Edward Lin

What People Like

Historical significance
Peaceful atmosphere
Squid Game connection

What People Dislike

Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tapgol Park is easily accessible via Seoul's subway system. Take subway line 1 to Jonggak Station (Exit 1 or 2) or line 3 to Anguk Station (Exit 6). It's a short walk from either station. TikTok

Yes, Tapgol Park is centrally located and within walking distance of popular areas like Insadong and Ikseondong, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Reddit

The T-Money card is highly recommended for seamless travel on Seoul's extensive subway and bus network. Consider a Discover Seoul Pass for bundled attraction access. TikTok+1

While it's a bit of a walk, you can reach Tapgol Park from Myeongdong by foot, or take a short subway ride on Line 1 from Myeongdong Station to Jonggak Station. TikTok

While there aren't specific free shuttles directly to Tapgol Park, the public transportation system is efficient and affordable, especially with a T-Money card. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Tapgol Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors. You can explore its historical sites and enjoy the green space without any cost. Instagram

Tapgol Park is generally open from early morning until late evening. Specific hours can vary slightly, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours and into the early night. Instagram

Since Tapgol Park is free to enter, no tickets are required. You can simply walk in and explore at your own pace. Instagram

Yes, Tapgol Park is perfect for a quick visit. You can see the main highlights, including the pagoda and pavilion, in about 30-60 minutes. Instagram

Tapgol Park is a historical site and a public space, so while there aren't typically ticketed events, you might encounter local gatherings or cultural observations. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 10-story stone pagoda and the octagonal pavilion are prime photo spots. The park's serene atmosphere also offers many picturesque corners. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed in Tapgol Park for personal use. Be respectful of visitors, especially the elderly who often gather here. Instagram

Absolutely! The historical structures and tranquil setting make it a great spot for unique Instagram shots, especially if you're a fan of K-dramas like 'Squid Game'. Instagram+2

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the park's serene beauty. Late afternoons can also provide lovely golden hour light. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and historical sites in Seoul to ensure safety and preserve the environment. It's best to avoid bringing drones. TikTok

🎫 👴 Onsite Experience

You can admire the 10-story stone pagoda, relax in the octagonal pavilion, and observe the local elderly community playing Janggi (Korean chess). It's also a famous 'Squid Game' filming location. InstagramReddit+2

Yes, Tapgol Park offers a glimpse into local life, particularly the older generation socializing and playing traditional games. It's a peaceful contrast to busier tourist spots. Reddit

Tapgol Park is historically significant as the site of the March 1st Movement in 1919, a major Korean independence demonstration. It also houses National Treasure No. 2. Reddit

The area around Tapgol Park, especially nearby Insadong and Ikseondong, is filled with restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering a wide variety of Korean cuisine. Reddit

Tapgol Park can get moderately crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Weekday mornings tend to be the quietest. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tapgol Park offers a peaceful respite and a touch of history for families. While it might not have playgrounds, the open spaces and the impressive 10-story stone pagoda can spark children's curiosity. It's a great place to teach them about Korean history and culture in a relaxed setting. The park's connection to 'Squid Game' might also be a fun talking point for older children familiar with the show. Instagram+2

Keep in mind that the park is a popular spot for elderly locals, so maintaining a respectful and calm demeanor is appreciated. Consider combining your visit with nearby Insadong, which offers more kid-friendly activities like traditional craft workshops and souvenir shops. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as exploring Seoul often involves a good amount of walking. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Tapgol Park is an excellent destination for solo travelers looking for a blend of history, culture, and a peaceful urban oasis. It's a safe and easily accessible location, perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon of quiet contemplation. You can immerse yourself in the historical significance of the park, admire the ancient pagoda, and observe the daily lives of locals without feeling out of place. Reddit

As a filming location for 'Squid Game', it offers a unique pop culture connection that many solo travelers enjoy exploring. The proximity to areas like Insadong and Ikseondong means you can easily spend a full day exploring the neighborhood. Don't forget to grab a T-Money card for convenient travel between sights. TikTokInstagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Korean History and Culture

Tapgol Park, or Pagoda Park, is more than just a green space; it's a site steeped in Korean history. It was the epicenter of the March 1st Movement in 1919, a pivotal moment in Korea's struggle for independence from Japanese rule. The park features a monument commemorating this event, making it a place of national significance. Visitors can also admire National Treasure No. 2, a magnificent 10-story stone pagoda, showcasing traditional Korean architecture. Reddit

The park also offers a unique window into contemporary local life. You'll often see elderly Koreans gathered, socializing and playing Janggi, a traditional Korean board game similar to chess. This vibrant community aspect adds a layer of authenticity to the visitor experience, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city outside. Reddit

For fans of popular culture, Tapgol Park gained international recognition as a filming location for the hit Netflix series 'Squid Game'. It's where the mysterious recruiter offers potential players the choice between a lottery ticket or bread, a scene that captivated global audiences. Instagram+2

Navigating Seoul's Public Transport

Seoul boasts an incredibly efficient and user-friendly public transportation system, making it easy to reach Tapgol Park and explore the city. The subway network is extensive, with numerous lines connecting all major districts. For Tapgol Park, the closest stations are Jonggak Station (Line 1) and Anguk Station (Line 3). From either, it's a short and pleasant walk to the park entrance. TikTok

To make your travels even smoother, consider purchasing a T-Money card. This rechargeable smart card can be used on subways, buses, and even in many convenience stores and taxis. It significantly simplifies fare payment and often offers slight discounts compared to single-use tickets. Alternatively, the Discover Seoul Pass or Klook Pass Seoul can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple attractions, as they often include unlimited public transport. TikTok+1

When exploring, remember the advice to wear comfortable shoes. You'll likely be doing a lot of walking between stations, attractions, and within the park itself. While the public transport is excellent, embracing a walkable approach allows you to discover hidden gems and truly soak in the city's atmosphere. TikTok

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