Songpa-gu Introduces ‘Three Hidden Urban Retreats’
Three Relaxing Spots in Nature... Proven Favorites Frequently Visited by Residents
Bangi Wetland, Jangji Park, Ogeum Park... Observe Ecology, Experience the Forest, Walk Barefoot
As the final vacation season approaches, Songpa-gu (Mayor Seo Gang-seok) introduces three urban retreats for citizens who have not yet gone on vacation.
Although these spots are less known compared to Songpa’s representative attractions like Seokchon Lake and Olympic Park, they have long been beloved by residents as everyday places of rest, making them ‘proven’ hidden gems.
A Unique Experience in an Urban Ecological Wetland, ‘Bangi Wetland’
‘Bangi Wetland (443-15 Bangi-dong)’ was once used as rice paddies and later operated as a brick factory in the 1970s. Excavation of soil for brick production created ponds, which were later used as small-scale fish farms. After closure, human activity ceased naturally, transforming the area into a habitat for various flora and fauna.
It is home to all 11 species of wild birds managed by Seoul City, including the kingfisher, great spotted woodpecker, yellow-browed warbler, and titmouse, and was designated an ecological landscape conservation area in April 2002.
In addition, rare in Seoul, it features a unique coexistence of freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems with plants like reeds and bulrushes, and animals such as water rails and willow carp. Various experiential programs, including wetland interpretation and ecological education, are offered through the ‘Bangi Ecological Learning Center.’
‘Jangji Park’ Offers Tranquility in the Forest
‘Jangji Park (San 11 Jangji-dong)’ is well connected to the Jangji Stream course of the Songpa Dullegil trail, making it easily accessible. Its flat terrain allows people of all ages to enjoy nature while walking.
The park features Jangsa Rock and Jangsa Spring, associated with General Im Gyeong-eop from the Joseon Dynasty, as well as a forest experience center for young children. Last year, the district created a health acupressure path and restored the habitat of the endangered Korean fire-bellied toad in a neglected forest area, enriching the park’s attractions and activities.
Residents’ favorite spot within the park is the ‘Metasequoia Road.’ Towering trees stretch along the backdrop of the Seoul Metropolitan Area 1st Circular Expressway, offering visitors a serene and refreshing forest atmosphere.
‘Ogeum Park’: A Daily Retreat to Walk Barefoot in the Forest
‘Ogeum Park (51 Ogeum-dong)’ is a park created on a low hill about 200 meters above sea level, preserving the natural beauty of the area.
It features a flower and tree-lined walking trail, a children’s playground, and various exercise equipment. In September last year, the district transformed the upper part of the Ogeum water reservoir, which had long been inaccessible to residents, into a park offering panoramic views of Songpa. Most walking paths are soft dirt trails, attracting residents who come to exercise while escaping the heat. Later this year, the district plans to create a loess path for barefoot walking.
A resident who visits Ogeum Park daily said, “The forest is dense and cool, and the soft dirt paths mean I usually stay for 3 to 4 hours once I come. There’s no need to go far to escape the heat. This is what a vacation really is,” sharing their thoughts.
On August 7, when the urban temperature exceeded 36 degrees Celsius during the peak of the heatwave, the temperature inside Ogeum Park’s forest stayed above 32 degrees Celsius, showing a 4-degree difference.
Seo Gang-seok, Mayor of Songpa-gu, stated, “As summer comes to an end, I recommend not traveling far but visiting Songpa-gu, which offers various charms, to experience nature within the city and enjoy a comfortable rest and special memories.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
