30,000-Square-Meter 'Korean Forest Garden' to Open on Namsan Mountain

A large-scale forest garden spanning 30,000 square meters, featuring Korea's unique garden culture, is set to open on Namsan Mountain.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that it will fully open the 'Korean Forest Garden,' a revamped area around the Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden in Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, to the public on June 27.

The Korean Forest Garden is a renovated space that previously served as the Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden, established in 1997. It was created by reinterpreting traditional Korean gardens and representative forests from across the country in a modern way.

The garden features representative Korean tree species and native plants, such as plum, crape myrtle, and bamboo, along with walking paths, rest areas, and observation decks that harmonize with the natural flow of the landscape.

The garden is composed of 11 smaller gardens under three main themes: 'Tradition and Culture,' 'Nature and Ecology,' and 'Recreation and Relaxation.'

The 'Tradition and Culture' section includes the Jidangwon, Yeongjiwon, and Mugunghwawon (Rose of Sharon Garden).

Jidangwon is a space that modernizes traditional pavilions and the technique of *chagyeong* (borrowed scenery), allowing visitors to enjoy a landscape where bamboo groves and ponds harmonize.

A barefoot walking path through the forest has also been created nearby.

Yeongjiwon is inspired by Myeongokheon in Damyang, South Jeolla Province, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of a traditional garden where crape myrtle trees and a pond blend together.

Various other gardens, such as the 'Nature and Ecology' forest garden, a moss garden, a bamboo grove, and a pine forest, have also been prepared.

On the opening day, June 27, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., forest interpretation programs, traditional mother-of-pearl fan making, and temporary tattoo sticker experiences will be held as part of the 'Namsan Summer Festival.'

These experience programs are free of charge and open to everyone.

A Seoul city official stated, "We expect the Korean Forest Garden to become a relaxing space for citizens in the heart of the city and a new landmark where tourists can experience Korean garden culture."

(Photo: Provided by Seoul Metropolitan Government, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.