Yongsan Family Park

Once a golf course for the United States military, Yongsan Family Park has become an oasis and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The large park, which features wonderful wide open green spaces and trees, is situated right next to the National Museum of Korea just south of Mt. Namsan just off the banks of the Han River.

During the invasion of Korea by Japn during the Imjin War (1592–1598), the surrounding land was used as a base for the service corps. The area was once again used by the Japanese around 1882 at a military station for troops. When Japan surrendered after the second world war, the land was set aside as a garrison for the United States military. For almost 50 years, the land was used by the United States as a golf course and as a residential area.

In 1992, the land was handed over from foreign control back to Korea. Over the years it was converted into a park that now features winding walking paths that run past many beautiful trees, a peaceful small pond, athletic facilities, sculptures, wide open green spaces, and playgrounds for children.

At the center of Yongsan Family Park is Taegukgi (National Flag) Park. The park within a park is shaped like the Korean national flower, the rose of Sharon. It features the rose and 50 flags that wave in the wind for the purpose of evoking Korean patriotism after so many years of foreign invasion and intervention.

Nearby Sights

National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea is the largest museum in Korea. It showcases important cultural assets of Korea from prehistoric times through modern day. The museum opened on October 28, 2005 on the grounds of Yongsan Family Park.

Banpo Bridge (Moonlight Rainbow Fountain)

Banpo Bridge, the location of the Moonlight Rainbow Show, is a girder bridge that spans the Han River connecting the districts of Seocho and Yongsan. Construction on the double decker bridge was completed in 1982. The real reason people come here is to see the falling and dancing water, lights, and music of the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain show.

Sebit Dungdungseom (Floating Island)

Three artificial floating islands on the Hangang River

Itaewon

Itaewon is a unique and multicultural district located in Yongsan-gu just south of Myeongdong and north of the Han River. This vibrant neighborhood is known world wide as a destination for entertainment, shopping, and food. The best time to visit Itaewon is during the evenings and on the weekends when locals, foreigners, and American soldiers flock here to shop, eat, and party.

Banpo Hangang Park

Banpo Hangang Park is a park located on the southern side of the Han River. Most people visit this park to see the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain show. The bridge is a well known tourist attraction and the longest fountain bridge in the world.

Seoul Central Mosque

Seoul Central Mosque is Korea's first and Seoul's only mosque or masjid. It is located at the top of a hill above the busy neighborhood of Itaewon. Many residents visit on weekends to learn about Islam. Lectures can be heard in Korean, English, and Arabic.

Last Updated on Oct 21, 2023