Hello, fellow wanderers! I’m the Traveling Designer Traveler, your local Seoulite with a passion for blending creativity and culture here on Korea Travel Diary. As a designer, I can’t resist sketching urban landscapes or snapping photos of hidden gems, and I love sharing Korea’s vibrant yet peaceful spots with friends from around the world.
If you’re craving a break from the neon buzz of Gangnam or the historic hustle of Gyeongbokgung, join me on this green escape to Seoul Botanic Park in Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu.
Opened in 2019, this massive urban oasis spans the size of 70 soccer fields, offering forests, lakes, and exotic plants—a true slice of paradise in the middle of the city. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast, a family traveler, or simply looking for a little zen, this is the perfect half-day adventure. Let’s dive in!
- Why Visit Seoul Botanic Park?
- Getting There
- Exploring the Park
- Nearby Treasures
Why Visit Seoul Botanic Park?
A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Tucked away in the up-and-coming Magok district, Seoul Botanic Park (서울식물원) is more than just a garden—it’s a living museum of global biodiversity. The park combines the best of a botanical garden and a public park, featuring plants native to 12 major cities around the world. From the tropical vibes of Singapore to the Mediterranean charm of Athens, it’s like traveling the globe in a single stroll.
Imagine walking through misty greenhouses filled with orchids and ferns, or enjoying a picnic by a lake where swans glide across the water. Accessibility is top-notch, with wide walking paths, plenty of benches, and even pet-friendly zones (though note that pups aren’t allowed inside the greenhouses).
The architecture is another highlight. The main greenhouse, shaped like a giant lotus leaf, elegantly captures natural light while protecting fragile ecosystems. Inside, themed areas like the Tropical Pavilion with cascading waterfalls or the Skywalk above lily pads are both Instagram-worthy and unforgettable in person.
Each season brings something new—spring cherry blossoms, summer lotuses, and autumn foliage. Eco-friendly initiatives also shine here, from breeding endangered species to hosting workshops on urban gardening. Best of all, the outdoor gardens are free to enter, making it a budget-friendly stop for any traveler.
Getting There: Easy and Convenient
As a Seoul local, I always recommend the subway—it’s fast, cheap, and very foreigner-friendly with English signage. No need to splurge on taxis unless you’re in a rush. Most rides cost under 2,000 KRW one-way.
- Start at Seoul Station (Line 1, Line 4, or KTX).
- Transfer to Line 9 (orange line) toward Gaehwa. Ride about 20–25 minutes (fare around 1,400 KRW).
- Get off at Magoknaru Station (마곡나루역). Take Exit 3 or 4, both lead directly to the park.
- Walk 5 minutes (400m) to the entrance, following signs for “Botanic Center.”
⏱️ Total travel time: 30–40 minutes.
- Myeongdong: Line 4 → transfer to Line 9 at Daebang → about 35 minutes total.
- Hongdae: Line 2 → transfer to Line 9 at Dangsan → around 25 minutes.
*Use a T-money card (reloadable at convenience stores) for seamless transfers—no need to buy single-ride tickets each time.
*Driving is possible with an on-site parking lot (200–300 KRW per 5–10 minutes), but spots are limited. Public transport is cheaper, greener, and stress-free. Arrive early (9 AM opening) to avoid weekend crowds.
Exploring the Park: Highlights You Can’t Miss
Plan 2–3 hours to fully enjoy the park without rushing. Grab a free map at the entrance or download the official app with English audio guides.
- Open Forest: A shady woodland with native Korean trees like ginkgo and pine. Perfect for a peaceful walk.
- Lake Garden: A central pond where you can rent rowboats (5,000 KRW/hour, seasonal) or simply relax watching ducks and swans.
- Wetland Garden: Boardwalks over reeds and marshes, a great spot for birdwatching.
- Kid’s Garden School: A playful, educational space where kids can plant and explore nature hands-on. Families will love it.
The Botanic Center (paid admission: 5,000 KRW adults, 3,000 KRW teens, 2,000 KRW kids, free for under 6 or seniors) is the main attraction. Closed Mondays, it features:
- Tropical Pavilion: Lush greenery, waterfalls, and giant rubber trees.
- Mediterranean Pavilion: Sunlit space with succulents, citrus, and olive trees.
- Seasonal Flower Gardens: Tulips in spring, chrysanthemums in fall.
✔ Also worth visiting: Magok Cultural Hall (free), housed in a repurposed pump station. On weekends, you might catch yoga classes or herbal tea workshops.
✔ Practical info: Open 9 AM–6 PM (greenhouse until 5:30 PM). Last entry is 30 minutes before closing. Wheelchair-friendly, with ramps, clean restrooms, cafes, and even EV charging stations. Don’t miss trying the refreshing herbal iced tea at the café (around 4,000 KRW).
Nearby Treasures: Extend Your Adventure
Nearby Treasures: Extend Your Adventure
If you still have energy after exploring, Gangseo-gu offers plenty more:
- LG Science Park (5-minute walk): A futuristic campus with public art, outdoor plazas, and sleek architecture.
- Han River Bike Path (10-minute walk): Rent a bike (3,000 KRW/hour) and enjoy riverside views, especially at sunset.
- Balsan Park (15 minutes by subway): A hilltop park with seasonal flowers, trails, and panoramic city views. Free entry.
- Gimpo Airport Viewing Deck (20 minutes by bus/subway): Watch planes take off and land while enjoying duty-free shopping nearby.
Seoul Botanic Park is more than a place—it’s a reset button in the middle of a bustling megacity. From its easy subway access to its immersive plant worlds, it’s an experience tailored for curious travelers. Affordable, accessible, and endlessly photogenic, it’s a destination that feels fresh every season.
As a designer, I love how this space blends global culture with Seoul’s identity, reminding us that nature is the greatest muse of all.
So, next time you’re in Seoul, don’t miss this green sanctuary. And tell me in the comments—what’s your favorite escape into nature?
Safe travels, and see you in the next diary entry!
*All details current as of my last visit in 2025. Check the official website for updates.
*Today’s post was a brief introduction to Seoul Botanic Park. I’ll be sharing my own photos and a detailed review from my visit soon, so stay tuned!
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