Seocho-gu Opens 'Seoripul Forest Imagination School,' an AR Content Forest Experience for People with Disabilities

First Among All Local Governments Nationwide... Official Operation Starting in May
Opening Ceremony at Bangbae Sup Environment Library

Seocho-gu, Seoul (Mayor Jeon Seong-su) announced on the 18th that it will open the ‘Seoripul Forest Imagination School,’ the nation’s first augmented reality (AR) content forest experience facility for people with disabilities, on the 19th.

The Imagination School is a program that allows participants to experience the forest using digital AR content while walking along the forest trails of Seoripul Park. It is built on a barrier-free forest trail (a wooden deck trail with gentle slopes and no obstacles such as stairs or curbs), making it accessible to people with disabilities and others who have difficulty climbing mountains.

A total of 102 species of animals, plants, and insects inhabiting Seoripul Park and surrounding areas are implemented in the AR experience zone, allowing visitors to observe nature vividly. A forest ecology interpretation program led by professional guides is also offered.

Through mission content such as raising dinosaurs and creating the Seoripul Encyclopedia, visitors can feel a sense of achievement and enjoyment by completing missions during repeated visits. The growth of animals, plants, and insects can also be seen through quarterly growth stories. For those who need devices to use QR codes, rentals are available on-site for reserved users, and various AR experiences can be accessed by scanning QR codes installed along the walking trails.

Additionally, the forest ecology interpretation program is conducted by social workers and forest interpreters who have completed training on disability characteristics and awareness improvement. Various programs for resting in nature are also offered, including ▲sensory-stimulating craft activities using natural materials ▲mind care meditation and relaxation ▲reading books in the library.

The opening ceremony of the Imagination School will be held on the 19th at the rooftop park of the Bangbae Forest Environment Library, located at the starting point of the barrier-free forest trail. The event will begin with a congratulatory performance by the ‘Seocho Hanuri Orchestra,’ composed of members with developmental disabilities.

The Imagination School will operate from May to November after a pilot operation this month. Programs for May and June can be registered starting from the 22nd through the Seoul Public Reservation Service website.

Mayor Jeon Seong-su said, “We are very proud to establish the ‘Seoripul Forest Imagination School,’ where both people with and without disabilities can freely enjoy nature in the city and take care of their health. We will continue to carefully address the difficulties faced by people with disabilities in their daily lives.”