Nearly 3,000 animals live in the zoos at this attraction with rose garden, art museum & theme park.

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Seoul Grand Park

Seoul Grand Park, nestled in Gwacheon, distinguishes itself not merely as a park, but as a meticulously curated ecosystem encompassing diverse biomes. Its zoo, for instance, prioritizes naturalistic enclosures, moving away from traditional caged environments to mimic the animals' native habitats. The park's rose garden boasts a collection of rare and heritage roses, cultivated for their unique fragrance and historical significance, rather than solely for visual appeal. A lesser-known feature is the park's commitment to seed banking, preserving genetic diversity of native Korean flora. The contemporary art museum within the park's boundaries provides a unique juxtaposition of art and nature, often showcasing installations that interact directly with the surrounding landscape. The park's lake, while seemingly ornamental, plays a crucial role in regulating the local microclimate and supporting a variety of aquatic bird species. It's a place where conservation efforts and recreational space harmoniously coexist.

Introduction

Seoul Grand Park emerges as a sprawling recreational haven, offering respite from urban life with its diverse tapestry of natural wonders and recreational activities. Established in the 1980s, the park played a pivotal role in transforming Gwacheon into a vibrant administrative and cultural center. Within its grounds, visitors can explore themed areas that transport them to different ecosystems. The park includes botanical gardens and theme gardens.

Seoul Zoo, a direct institution of Seoul Grand Park, focuses on exhibition, conservation, education, and research within its zoological and botanical garden. The Seoul Museum of Modern Art, nestled amidst the park's landscapes, provides a tranquil escape with its collection of Korean and international modern art.

The park harmoniously blends Korea's rich heritage alongside modern artistic expressions. Gyeongui Line Forest Park serves as a testament to Seoul's commitment to sustainable urban development, providing a serene haven where nature and city life intertwine harmoniously. A visit to Seoul Grand Park is incomplete without savoring the local Korean cuisine available at nearby eateries. Whether you're in the mood for savory street food or a traditional Korean meal, the diverse culinary offerings promise to delight your palate and provide a delicious taste of Korea's rich food culture.

Urban Oasis

Seoul Grand Park showcases ecological diversity through its extensive grounds, featuring a variety of themed areas dedicated to both flora and fauna. The park's ecological richness is evident in its botanical garden, home to over 41,000 plants representing 1,262 species, including tropical and subtropical varieties not typically found in Korea. The Seoul Zoo, a recognized member of ISIS and IUDZG-WZO, houses over 2,975 animals from approximately 348 species worldwide, managed in environments that mimic their natural ecosystems.

The Forest Bathing Park within Seoul Grand Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the local flora and fauna of Cheonggyesan Mountain, with 470 tree species and 35 bird species identified within its boundaries. This area includes a 6.3km hiking trail divided into four sections, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the forest's biodiversity. The Healing Forest Walkway, part of the Healing Place, provides a habitat for small animals like squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons, further contributing to the park's ecological tapestry. The park's efforts to preserve and exhibit rare animals, coupled with its diverse botanical collections and forest environments, make it a significant site for ecological observation and appreciation.

Ecological Diversity

Seoul Grand Park's establishment in Gwacheon during the 1980s marked a pivotal moment in the region's historical evolution, transforming it into a vibrant administrative and cultural hub. Originally conceived to protect historic cultural properties and accommodate the increasing number of visitors and animals at Changgyeongwon Zoo, the park's creation was part of a broader initiative to relocate key government agencies south of Seoul. This strategic move aimed to create a new administrative city beyond the range of North Korean artillery, with Gwacheon-myeon selected as the ideal site in 1978.

Construction of Seoul Grand Park commenced in 1978, culminating in its grand opening on May 1, 1984. This development not only provided a new home for the Seoul Zoo but also spurred the construction of residential districts to house government employees and their families. Over the next four years, the park expanded to include amusement parks, a botanical garden, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art, solidifying its status as a cultural landmark.

The relocation of the zoo from Changgyeongwon to Seoul Grand Park was a significant event, reflecting the evolving priorities of cultural heritage management and urban planning. In commemoration of the zoo's 100th anniversary on November 1, 2009, the Ape Pavilion was remodeled, and a time capsule was buried, further cementing the park's historical importance. Today, Seoul Grand Park stands as a testament to Korea's rich heritage and modern artistic expressions, offering a unique cultural experience that reflects the essence of the nation's past and present.

Historical Evolution

Seoul Grand Park, a family-friendly amusement park in Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, serves as a multifaceted recreational hub with diverse themed facilities promoting education, nature, and amusement. The park's expansive 9,157,000 ㎡ area houses attractions like Seoul Zoo, a Children's Zoo, and a botanical garden featuring over 41,000 plants from 1,262 species. The Theme Garden, another key feature, includes a Rose Garden with approximately 30,000 roses of 400 species, alongside seasonal plants and themed programs.

For those seeking outdoor activities, Seoul Grand Park offers a campsite open from March to November, equipped with a volleyball court, basketball court, snack bar, and shower facilities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the Zoo Trail (4.5km) and Forest Trail (7.0km), both of which are now free to enter since January 2021. These trails loop around the zoo, offering scenic views and a connection to nature.

Gwacheon Lake, located at the park's core, provides a serene environment for relaxation and picnics, enhancing the park's recreational appeal. The Healing Place, a forest at the foothills of Cheonggyesan Mountain, features the Healing Forest Walkway, Aroma Garden, and Forest Plaza, offering a tranquil escape. Getting around the park is facilitated by leisure walks, sky lifts, and an elephant tram, ensuring easy access to its various recreational zones.

Seoul Grand Park

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