At a Glance: Olympic Park (올림픽공원) offers a blend of sports history, green spaces, and cultural experiences in the heart of Seoul.
When a friend asks me about Olympic Park (올림픽공원), I usually tell them it’s a huge, relaxing space filled with both modern amenities and remnants from Korea’s past. It’s not just a spot for sports; it’s where you can walk among ancient fortresses and enjoy the open grass fields. Plus, it’s free to enter, which is always a plus in any city.
What is Olympic Park (올림픽공원) exactly?
Olympic Park is an expansive leisure area that spans approximately 1.45 million square meters in Songpa-gu, Seoul. It was developed for the 1988 Seoul Olympics and features state-of-the-art sports facilities alongside historical remains from the Baekje era. This includes sites like Mongchontoseong Fortress and a manmade lake known as Mongchonhaeja.
The park is divided into several zones: there’s the leisure sports park for active pursuits, a cultural art park showcasing various exhibits, an eco-park filled with greenery, and the History Experience Park that dives deeper into the area’s heritage. You’ll find something to enjoy Spending a few hours at Olympic Park gives you both relaxation and insight into Korean culture. Many locals use this space for jogging, picnics, or leisurely strolls. The combination of well-maintained paths and beautiful landscapes makes it good for unwinding after exploring the busier parts of Seoul.
If you’re visiting during warmer months, don’t miss out on renting a bike to explore more of the area quickly. Plus, there are picnic spots where you can sit down and enjoy some snacks—there are food vendors nearby that sell quick bites if you didn’t bring anything with you. Small detail, but it matters.
How to plan your visit?
The park operates year-round with pedestrian access from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (the plaza area stays open until midnight). If you’re bringing your vehicle, note that entry times are slightly different—it’s open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM but restricted after hours for safety reasons.
Parks like this often require some planning due to their size. It might take over three hours to see everything if you really want to dive in. To save time exploring, consider riding the Hodori Train located next to Peace Square; it’s an easy way to cover ground without getting too tired. If you’re using public transportation, Olympic Park is easily accessible via subway lines with nearby stations that drop you off within walking distance. Small detail, but it matters.
What I would do differently next time
If I’m being honest, I would arrive earlier in the day next time—I felt rushed trying to fit everything into one afternoon visit. Starting around opening time means more peaceful exploration before it gets crowded later on.
A little tip: pack some snacks or lunch if you’re planning on spending several hours there; while there are eateries inside the park, they can get busy during meal times. Just remember that you’ll want plenty of water as well because walking around will make you thirsty!
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Essential Information
| Address | 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul |
|---|---|
| Phone | +82-2-410-1114 |
| Website | www.ksponco.or.kr |
| Operating Hours | Pedestrian and bicycle access: 05:00–22:00 (Plaza area until 24:00) Vehicle access: 06:00-22:00 * Prohibited from entering park except for Peace Square and Meeting Square after 22:00 for safety |
| Closed | N/A (Open all year round) |
| Parking | Available |
| Inquiries | +82-2-410-1114 |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
Additional Details
Available
Free
Small vehicles: 600 won for each 10 minute increment
Large vehicles (24 passengers / 2.5 tons of more): 12,000 won
* Light-weighted vehicles, cars for people with disabilities, etc.: 50% discount
* In the event of large event held in the park, parking fees are changed to pre-paid parking lot and the parking lot operating hour is subject to change.
(Pre-paid parking lot: Small vehicles 5,000 won / Large vehicles 12,000 won)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours for Olympic Park (올림픽공원)?
Olympic Park is open daily for pedestrians from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM and vehicles from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is there an admission fee for Olympic Park (올림픽공원)?
No admission fee is charged at Olympic Park; entry is free.
How can I get to Olympic Park (올림픽공원) using public transport?
The park is easily accessible by subway; look for nearby stations that connect directly to major lines.
Useful Korean Phrases
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