This is a summary of the cultural features of a Korean regional city in Seoul’s Gangdong-gu for a travel guidebook.
Seoul Gangdong-gu ‘Iljasan Nature Park’
“Located at the border between Dunchon-dong in Gangdong-gu and Choi-dong in Hanam City, Iljasan Natural Park is characterized by its relatively low mountain range with gentle slopes in all directions. The mountain top, shaped like the Chinese character ‘一’ (il), gave rise to the name Iljasan. At the summit, there is a sunrise square symbolizing the spot where Gangdong-gu greets the earliest sunrise in Seoul. In 2006, a Herb and Astronomy Park was created above Gil-dong water reservoir. In March 2008, a grass square, X-game area, outdoor basketball court, indoor badminton court, and a waterfall were added, becoming popular as a leisure space for local residents. Within Iljasan, Gil-dong Ecological Park offers an opportunity to experience nature amidst the urban setting. The area of Dungul is scattered with historical roots related to Dunchon Yijip. Yijip is a resting place for city dwellers, named after the loyal subject during the late Goryeo period, who built an underground shelter and lived in hiding in the southwest of Iljasan, encouraged by the advice of Shin Don, who was a sage at the time. To commemorate those early days, the area was renamed Dunchon, and the neighborhood of Dunchon-dong was derived from Yijip’s nickname.”
• Address (location): “660 Dongnam-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City”
• Hours of use: “Open all year round”
Seoul Gangdong-gu ‘Guamseowon Site (Guamjeong)’
Located at 1-1 San, Amsa-dong, Gangdong-gu, Gugamseowon is the first temple built in Gucheonmyeon in the mid-17th century during the reign of King Hyunjong in the Joseon Dynasty. Young scholars in this area used to come here to study Confucianism and cultivate knowledge and manners in order to pass the civil service examination and become government officials in the past. The scholars trained here at Gucheonmyeon would pay homage to the Leeji House, receive the posthumous title of Gugamseowon during the reign of King Sukjong, and were influenced by prominent figures like Lee Yang-jung, Eo Yoon-gyeom, Im Suk-yeong, and Jeong Seon-geun. They organized academic activities and formed a Confucian village community around Gugamseowon. However, Gugamseowon disappeared in 1871 during the reign of King Gojong when all temples across the nation were closed, leaving only a monument erected in 1898 to commemorate its legacy. Originally built on a rocky cliff dating back to the Three Kingdoms period, Gugamseowon stands today with Gugamjeong to honor its history. (Source: Gangdong-gu Culture and Tourism)
• Address (location): “Am Sadong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City”
• Hours of use: “Open all year round”
Seoul Gangdong-gu ‘Seoul Amsa-dong Archaeological Site’
“Located along the Han River in the inland region of Seoul, Amsa-dong Archaeological Site is a village relic from the early stages of the Neolithic era with comb-patterned pottery culture. Discovered for the first time during the Han River flood of 1925, Amsa-dong Prehistoric Settlement was designated as a national cultural heritage site on July 26, 1979. It is the largest settlement site of Neolithic people found in our country. The site contains cultural layers ranging from the Neolithic era to the historical era, where dwellings from the Three Kingdoms period or early Baekje period were also found in the upper layers of the cultural stratum that includes Neolithic era pit-houses. Excavated artifacts include grinding stones, shell mounds, stone tools, fishing net sinkers, cup-shaped pottery, and comb-patterned pottery. Amsa-dong Prehistoric Museum consists of a permanent exhibition hall and a Neolithic experience room. The permanent exhibition hall showcases the diversity and beauty of representative comb-patterned pottery patterns excavated from Amsa-dong, as well as a variety of tools used by Neolithic people. The Neolithic experience room is a space designed for children, offering various experiences such as fire-making. Additionally, educational programs at the Seoul Amsa-dong site include activities like making pottery necklaces and crafting bows, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in prehistoric culture through hands-on experiences.”
• Address (location): 875 Olympic-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City (Amsa-dong)
• Hours of use: T09:30~18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)
Seoul Gangdong District ‘Gugangsaji’
“The Gukangsasa in Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, is a significant temple in the eastern region of Seoul, known as the cradle of Cheontae Beom-eum and the center of Buddhist education. Housed in a five-story building, the temple features a Dharma hall on the 5th floor, a kindergarten called ‘Geumgang Kindergarten’ on the 3rd floor, and a garden on the rooftop. Regular Dharma services are held every fourth Sunday at 11 a.m., and the temple also operates a Buddhist university. Conveniently located across from Cheonin Middle School, near Exit 3 of Cheonho Station on Subway Line 5 and Line 8, this temple is a must-visit for foreign tourists seeking spiritual enlightenment.”
• Address (location): “64 Cheonjung-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City (Cheonho-dong)”
• Hours of use: 09:00~18:00
“Seoul Gangdong District ‘Gwangnaru Bicycle Park'”
“Gwangnaru Bicycle Park is a bike path connected to Gwangnaru Hangang Park in Gangdong-gu. You can ride a bike while enjoying the view of the Han River and take a leisurely stroll in the nearby parks. The biggest advantage of Gwangnaru Bicycle Park is that you can enjoy the Han River night view and sunset while cycling. You can rent a bike or bring your own since there are air pumps nearby for personal bikes. The park also has a children’s bike education area and bike tracks, making it a great place for families and couples to enjoy a relaxing ride together. The entrance to Gwangnaru Bicycle Park is about 900m away from Exit 3 of Amsa Station on the Seoul subway system.”
• Address (location): “83-19 Seonsa-ro, Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City”
Gwangnaru Hangang Park in Gangdong-gu, Seoul
“Located between the Gangdong Bridge and Jamsil Railroad Bridge, Gwangnaru Han River Park is a natural haven that beautifully preserves the original beauty of the Han River with its sandy beaches and extensive reed beds formed by natural sedimentation from the upper reaches of the river. As Seoul’s only water source protection area, boating and water leisure activities are prohibited, ensuring the water remains clean and clear. The lush greenery of Achasan Mountain to the north and the extensive reed fields along the 2km riverbank create a stunning landscape. Gwangnaru Han River Park is also a habitat for migratory birds. Nearby, you can explore various cultural heritage sites such as the Amhwasinsa Prehistoric Settlement, making it a place where nature and culture harmoniously coexist.”
• Address (location): 83-66 Sunsa-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City
• Hours of use: “Open All Day”
Cheonho Park in Gangdong-gu, Seoul
“Cheonho Park is a delightful green space in Seoul, located in the Cheonho-dong neighborhood of Gangdong-gu. It was established by the Seoul city government on the former site of a famous pen manufacturer’s factory. The park officially opened on June 20, 1998. One of its highlights is the Gangdong Public Library, which opened its doors on June 26, 2008. The library is named after the respected independence activist, Haegong Sin Ik-hee, who was born nearby. Cheonho Park is a popular leisure destination for local residents, featuring an outdoor stage, a pond, a basketball court, and stunning displays of azaleas in full bloom every spring.” (Source: Seoul Metropolitan Government Website)
• Address (location): 702 Olympic-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Hours of use: “Open at all times”
Seoul Gangdong-gu Herb Astronomy Park
Located across from Gil-dong Ecological Park in Gangdong-gu, Seoul, Herb Astronomy Park is a space where citizens of all ages, from children to the elderly, can enjoy jogging trails, walking paths, and observation decks, in addition to the nearby Iljasan Natural Park. The park’s design draws inspiration from the traditional Korean concept of Cheon-Ji-In, incorporating elements of cosmic space such as the Solar System, Lunar System, Celestial Sphere, constellations, and galaxies. To the east, there is an observation deck for viewing the early morning sunrise, while to the west, there is an observatory for watching the sunset. Especially for nighttime visitors, the park features 282 multi-colored constellation lights scattered throughout the ground, allowing you to enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the constellations. This ground lighting, which replicates a 75m astronomical dome, provides a view of constellations like the North Star, the Cowherd, and the Weaver when observed from the observation decks located on the east and west sides. It is a popular date spot among young couples. You can access the park through Seoul City’s public service reservation system at https://yeyak.seoul.go.kr.
• Address (location): “86, San-dong, Dunchon-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City”
• Hours of use: “Open all year round”
Seoul Gangdong-gu Herb Experience Park
“The Herb Experience Park is a park connected to the nearby Herb Astronomical Park, where herbs supplied to the Herb Astronomical Park are cultivated. The Herb Experience Park features a Herb Experience Center, experiential gardens, and resting facilities that reflect the cultural characteristics of the Herb Astronomical Park. Residents can enjoy experiencing seasonal herbs and relaxing in this charming park.”
• Address (location): “575-3 Dunchon-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City”
• Hours of use: “Open all year round”
Seoul Gangdong-gu ‘Cheonho Bicycle Street’
Located on Cheonho Road leading to the Han River, Cheonho Bike Street is known as the main themed street of Gangdong-gu that has been beloved by cycling enthusiasts for a long time. This vibrant street is filled with bicycle-related shops offering a variety of products such as bicycles, accessories, gear, and clothing. One of the unique highlights of Cheonho Bike Street is the exhibition of quirky artwork titled ‘People Riding Bikes’ along with colorful murals adorning the walls. It’s not just about selling bicycles; the street is designed to provide convenient cycling experiences with dedicated bike lanes, various amenities, and opportunities to appreciate art, including fun murals.
• Address (location): Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City
• Hours of use: Open all year round
Seoul Gangdong-gu ‘Dr. Syngman Rhee Statue at Unam Park’
The Dr. Syngman Rhee Statue at Woo Nam Seung Man Park is located within the premises of Paejae High School, commemorating Dr. Rhee’s achievements in the independence movement. Erected in 1984, the statue stands at 3 meters tall and 1 meter wide. Dr. Woo Nam Seung Man, who studied Chinese classics from a young age, attended Paejae School, the predecessor of Paejae High School where the statue now stands. He learned theology there and later led reform movements in the modernization of media and independence associations during the Enlightenment period. After being exiled, he earned a doctorate in the United States and engaged in diplomatic efforts, national education, and promotional activities for the liberation of his homeland. Following Korea’s independence in 1948, he served as the first president of the Republic of Korea.
• Address (location): “227 Godeok-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea. Located inside Baejae Middle and High School in Godeok-dong.”
Seoul Gangdong-gu ‘Haegong Shin Ikhee Sunsaeng Statue’ – Exploring Cultural Heritage in Seoul
“In honor of the great patriot Haegong Sin Ik-hee, who dedicated his life to the independence and democratic development of our nation, a statue has been erected in Cheonho-dong by Gangdong-gu Office. Born in Gwangju in 1894, Sin Ik-hee graduated from Hanseong Foreign Language School in 1910 and later enrolled in the Department of Political Economy at Waseda University in Japan in 1912. He organized a student group called the Hwakwoo Society and published the magazine ‘Hakji Kwang,’ promoting national spirit and independence ideology. Upon his return to Korea in 1913, he established Dongmyeong School in his hometown, spreading new culture and enlightenment ideas. In 1919, he distributed the Declaration of Independence and led the March 1st Movement. Evading arrest in Korea, he fled to Shanghai and participated in the establishment of the Provisional Government, holding various key positions. Upon the liberation of our country, he returned and served as the Chief Justice of the Democratic Party and Speaker of the National Assembly. In 1956, while campaigning as the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party to realize democracy, he tragically passed away from a cerebral hemorrhage while on a train.”
• Address (location): “448-49 Cheonho 3-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul Special City (Inside Cheonho-dong Village Square)”
• Hours of use: “Open all year round”