Creation of Healing Walking Trails in the City, Including Bonghwasan Companion Trail and Mangwoo History and Culture Park
Operation of "Walking Clubs" Utilizing Local Walking Attractions... Leading the Spread of Walking Culture
Jungnang-gu (District Mayor Ryu Gyeonggi) is gaining attention as a "walkable city."
The district is spreading a healthy walking culture based on a variety of walking attractions where nature and daily life blend together. In particular, the barrier-free forest trail "Bonghwasan Companion Trail," which was completed across its entire length in 2021, has seen a steady increase in visitors each year, recently surpassing a cumulative total of 3 million visitors.
The "Bonghwasan Companion Trail" is a barrier-free walkway constructed as a deck path with a slope of 8.3% or less, making it accessible and comfortable for everyone. Wheelchair users, families with young children, and seniors can all use the trail safely and comfortably. The 3.5 km section connecting Bongsudae Park behind Jungnang-gu Office and the Mukdong Children’s Forest Experience Center offers a healing space where visitors can enjoy both the tranquility of the forest and scenic views within the city.
Mangwoo History and Culture Park, where history and nature coexist, is another unique walking attraction in Jungnang-gu. This park is the final resting place of over 80 independence activists and cultural artists. Last year, the walking path around the park was improved with the installation of safety railings and rest areas, greatly enhancing the walking environment. The "Path of Reflection" inside the park connects to Course 4 (Mangwoo-Yongmasan section) of the Seoul Dullegil Trail, allowing visitors to reflect on historical significance while walking through the serene forest.
The path descending along the walkway leads to Yongmasan Footpath and Sagajeong Park. This section features a harmonious blend of dirt and deck paths and is especially renowned as a walking spot during the spring cherry blossom season, when it offers breathtaking scenery.
The district is also working to improve residents’ health by operating "Walking Clubs" that utilize local walking attractions. Running from March to November, the walking clubs are open to all residents through ongoing recruitment, and currently, a total of 275 people are active in 7 clubs. Last year, 5,100 people participated in walking programs, demonstrating high resident engagement. In addition to simple walking, various programs are held, including bodyweight strength training, "plogging" (picking up litter while jogging) days, and walking practice campaigns.
The main walking courses are centered around local attractions such as Jungnang Camping Forest, Bonghwasan Trail, and Jungnangcheon Riverside Walkway.
Ryu Gyeonggi, Mayor of Jungnang-gu, said, "Creating walkable paths is a fundamental urban infrastructure that guarantees everyone’s right to mobility and to enjoy nature," adding, "We will continue to expand paths where anyone, including people with disabilities, seniors, and stroller users, can walk and relax."
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