Seoul Land

Seoul Land is an amusement park inside Seoul Grand Park, at the foot of Mt. Cheonggyesan in Gwacheon. It opened in May 1988, just before the Seoul Olympics, and is often described as Korea's first theme park. It is usually less crowded than Lotte World or Everland and you can reach it by subway, which makes it a good choice for families with young children.

History: a theme park opened before the Olympics

After the zoo at Seoul Grand Park opened in 1984, work began the same year on a large leisure complex next to it. Despite a change of building contractor midway, the park opened on 11 May 1988. It was modelled on Disneyland and divided into five themed zones.

The land belongs to the City of Seoul, while a private company runs the amusement park. So although Seoul Land sits inside Seoul Grand Park, it needs its own ticket.

What to see

The park has five main zones.

• World Plaza: The central square right behind the main gate, where evening shows and seasonal events are usually held.
• Adventure Land: Water rides and thrill rides such as a log flume and a pirate ship.
• Fantasy Land: Lots of rides sized for children, including a carousel, bumper cars and a small train, plus the dinosaur-themed Jurassic Land.
• Future Land: A space and future theme, with coasters such as Black Hole 2000 and a 360-degree film ride.
• Samcheolli Hill: Paddle boats and a theatre, with a snow sledding area in winter.

There are more than 50 rides and attractions in total, and some charge an extra fee. The ridges of Mt. Cheonggyesan surround the park, so the higher rides come with mountain views.

Seasonal festivals

Seoul Land runs a festival for every season: tulips in spring (April–May), roses in summer (July–August), chrysanthemums in autumn (September–October) and snow and lights in winter (December–February). Many evenings feature illuminations and a laser show, and some visitors come just for the evening. Festival names and dates change each year, so check the official website.

Tripto tips

• Getting there: Take Line 4 to Seoul Grand Park Station and walk, or ride the elephant train that loops around Seoul Grand Park. It is a fair walk through the park from the station to the Seoul Land gate.
• Tickets and hours: There is an all-day pass and a discounted ticket after 16:00. Hours vary between weekdays, weekends and seasons, and the park stays open into the evening. Prices change often and online discounts are common, so check the official website before you go.
• Time needed: Plan half a day to a full day if you want to ride properly.
• Combine with: Seoul Zoo, the botanical garden and the MMCA Gwacheon are in the same park. Many families do the zoo in the morning and Seoul Land in the afternoon.
• Watch out: Some outdoor rides stop in rain or strong wind. Many rides have height limits, so check your child's height in advance.