A Refreshing Trip to Naksan Park: History, Views, and K-Pop Influence
On a recent Saturday afternoon, I took a long-overdue trip to Naksan Park for some fresh air. The weather has been lovely lately, not too hot, making it perfect for strolling around and enjoying a change of scenery. It also happens to be a filming location for the globally popular 'K-Demon Hunters' (Kedeheon)!
I decided to take the subway instead of driving, to avoid traffic. After passing through Naksan Central Square and heading towards the summit, I walked up many steep paths and along the fortress walls. My legs were a bit tired, but I felt refreshed and glad I came.
The name 'Naksan' comes from the mountain's shape, which resembles a camel's hump. It's a relatively low mountain at 125 meters above sea level, but it's a fantastic park for a walk and some fresh air in Seoul. The slope is steep only when climbing from the bottom, but it becomes almost flat and easy to walk once you reach the top.
Naksan Park is known for its Seoul Fortress Wall, which has a unique charm, and for its beautiful night view.
The height of the fortress walls varied from place to place, but they appeared to be well-maintained, expanded, and preserved.
Perhaps due to the global popularity of 'K-Demon Hunters' (Kedeheon), I saw many foreign tourists. It was truly impressive to witness the growing global influence of Korean culture.
The weather was cool and clear after the rain, making it the perfect time to walk around and take in the sights. My timing couldn't have been better.
Having lived in Seoul for decades, this was actually my first time visiting Naksan Park and exploring it properly.
During the Joseon Dynasty, the mountains surrounding Seoul – Bukhansan, Inwangsan, Naksan, and Namsan – were referred to as the 'Inner Mountains'. Namsan Tower seemed very close by!
We entered through Naksan Central Square, went up to the summit, looked around, and then headed down towards Dongdaemun Station.
The Ihwa-dong Haneul Garden (Sky Garden) area is lined with cafes where you can relax and enjoy a drink.
It was around 5 PM, so the night lights weren't fully illuminated yet, but some places had already turned on the lights on their decorations.
The cafe alley was filled with young couples, and I was amazed at how they created such a vibrant atmosphere in the narrow alleys on the mountain.
We tried to find a suitable place to rest, but there weren't many empty seats, and the available spaces weren't ideal. So, we decided to go down and have a drink elsewhere.
The scenery was beautiful, making it a perfect date spot for young couples.
Along the fortress wall leading down to Dongdaemun Station, there were cafes and clothing stores creating colorful atmospheres.
Now, we began the descent in earnest. It was nice to walk a little easier going downhill.
As we approached Heunginjimun Park near Dongdaemun Station, we saw many young couples sitting there as well. The weather was clear, offering excellent visibility far into the distance.
Many people also climb up to Naksan Park from the Heunginjimun side.
The old and elegant Heunginjimun gate, a symbol of Seoul, was clearly visible.
Heunginjimun Park had an abundance of pampas grass, which swayed beautifully in the wind, creating a stunning sight.
After Naksan Park and Heunginjimun, we headed towards Cheonggyecheon Stream.
The cool waterfall and Cheonggyecheon Stream refreshed my spirits. There were also many foreigners here. This seems to be a direct result of Kedeheon's popularity. Seoul itself has become a popular tourist destination for foreigners!
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