Stepping into the Serenity of Seoul Children's Grand Park

#cityplaybook Stepping into Seoul Children's Grand Park recently felt like walking into a vibrant painting. After a string of rainy weekends, the sunshine broke through, illuminating the lush green of May, creating a truly dazzling scene. It was the perfect escape. One of the most captivating sights was an octagonal concrete pavilion. Built in the 1970s, it's a piece of history, over 50 years old, standing proudly beside a calm pond. This very park, located in Neung-dong, Gwangjin-gu, has a history stretching back over a century. It's incredible to think that this land was once Korea's first golf course during the Japanese colonial era, a spot where the elite gathered from the 1940s to the 1960s. Now, it's a wonderful urban park that welcomes everyone for free. On my visit, it was lovely to see it being enjoyed by multicultural women having a picnic. Near the old pavilion, a giant character balloon caught my eye. The technology for these has really improved; they're no longer rough and oddly colored, but sleek and beautifully detailed. Nearby, the joyful sound of children's laughter filled the air around the musical fountain – pure happiness. The Kkummaru building is another architectural highlight. It's hard to imagine that this sophisticated structure stands on ground that once hosted golf games for the highest levels of society. The park also holds significant historical ties, with the tomb of Empress Sunmyeonghyo, daughter-in-law of Emperor Gojong, having been located here in 1905. It connects the park to powerful figures in Korean history. The park is clearly evolving. The area around the ecological pond is being transformed into a children's garden, set to be completed in 2025. The new design is modern and refined, a definite upgrade from its previous, somewhat dated look. While the sleekness is appealing, I did feel it might have lost a little of its cozy, "handmade" feel. Beyond the specific attractions, the park offers a delightful range of experiences. I enjoyed the Jurassic dinosaur-themed garden and seeing the charming flower boats on the ecological pond. The park seemed to cater to every "vibe"—from trendy "MZ" aesthetics to nostalgic "retro" and relaxed "camper" feels. It’s a place where you can truly find comfort and enjoyment. #naturelovers #themepark