Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a long, narrow greenway built along a former railway line, running through Seoul’s Mapo-gu and Yongsan-gu districts. Its walking path links the Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong neighbourhoods, with trees, grassy spaces, water features and places to stop for food along the way. Look out for public art and seasonal changes in the planting; near Pokpo Cafe, a waterfall provides another pause on the route. It’s a calm change of pace from the nearby busy streets, though some stretches are livelier than others.
A park built along railway tracks
Gyeongui Line Forest Park follows the route of a former railway line that once ran through central Seoul toward Seoul Station. The railway was moved underground, and the park was built above the tracks. It now forms a 6.3-kilometre linear route, linking areas from near Gajwa Station toward Hyochang Park Station.
The park’s shape makes it useful as both a walking route and a place to stop for a while. It passes through Mapo-gu and Yongsan-gu, with Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong alongside the path. You can walk a stretch and leave by a nearby neighbourhood, or continue along the greenway.
Art and green spaces along the route
The park combines a walking path with grassy areas, water features and public art. Murals, sculptures and changing outdoor exhibits appear along different stretches. The setting shifts as you walk: some parts pass cafés and eateries, while others are quieter and better suited to a slower stroll.
The path is used for walking and picnics, and has facilities including public restrooms, play areas and sports courts. Dogs are allowed. Near Pokpo Cafe, a waterfall beneath Naebusunhwan-ro offers a place to pause; the café overlooks the water.
Choosing a stretch to visit
The section near Hongik University Station is an easy starting point for a walk, with the Hongdae area close by. Yeonnam-dong is another useful section to explore, with cafés and places to eat along the route. For public art and a change of scenery, keep walking beyond the busiest stretch rather than treating the park as a single destination.
The park has a different feel at different times of day. Some areas draw street performers, while other sections stay quieter. Spring brings flowers, and autumn changes the colour of the leaves. After rain, caterpillars can be present on the path, so a small twig can help brush them away.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long is Gyeongui Line Forest Park?
The linear park runs for about 6.3 kilometres, from near Gajwa Station toward Hyochang Park Station.
How do you get to Gyeongui Line Forest Park?
Hongik University Station on Subway Line 2 provides access to the park.
Can you bring a dog to Gyeongui Line Forest Park?
Yes. Dogs are allowed in the park.
What can you see at Gyeongui Line Forest Park?
The route has public art, grassy areas and water features. A waterfall is located near Pokpo Cafe.
