April Walking Route in Seocho: From The-K Hotel to Maehun Citizen’s Forest Memorial Park

A Serene Morning Walk with Fewer Crowds

Words by Jeong-Yoon Lee

As the warm and sunny April weather arrives, I have officially started enjoying light strolls. While a morning walk in the crisp air is refreshing, don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful streets of Seocho during the golden hour of sunset. The cherry blossoms in Maehun Citizen’s Forest are still budding, with deep pink blooms just beginning to emerge. Along the Yangjaecheon trail, the blossoms are scattered, so it seems we need to wait another week for them to be in full bloom. The lingering chill in the air reminds us to dress warmly for a comfortable walking date.

A Refreshing Morning Walk in Seocho’s Beautiful Streets

 

 

1. The-K Hotel Seoul

Exit Yangjae Citizen’s Forest Station from Exit 5, and you will immediately find Maehun Citizen’s Forest. Walk straight toward TheK Hotel, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll around the hotel grounds. Inside, you will find the bronze sculpture Sound - The Earth by artist Jun Jeon, a piece that evokes themes of family, humanity, love, and peace. While this hotel is not ideally located for tourists relying on public transportation, for walking enthusiasts like me, it is a pleasant stroll from Yangjae Citizen’s Forest Station.

 

 

 

2. Seocho Cultural & Art Park

Directly connected to The-K Hotel, Seocho Cultural & Art Park is perfect for a quiet walk, except on event days. True to its name, this park features sculptures scattered throughout, offering an enjoyable art experience. The park also provides hands-on ecological learning activities for children. My personal favorite is the stunning Metasequoia Trail, which is a must-visit.

 

 

 

3. Maehun Citizen’s Forest

From Seocho Cultural & Art Park, follow the path toward Yangjaecheon, and you will reach Maehun Citizen’s Forest. Among all the parks in Seocho I have visited, this remains my favorite. It features a memorial area, carefully maintained flower paths, and even an outdoor wedding venue. While I have yet to witness a ceremony there, it is something I look forward to seeing. If you're collecting Seoul Trail stamps, don't forget to stop by the stamping station. After passing the Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall, cross the street to visit the commemorative park featuring the Baekma Troop Memorial Tower, Umeonsan Disaster Memorial, Korean Air Flight 858 Memorial, and the Sampoong Department Store Disaster Memorial.

 

 

 

4. Yangjaecheon Trail

After exploring the memorial park, walk toward Yangjaecheon, where you will find various sculptures and the Yangjae Art Salon exhibition. While cherry blossoms are not yet in full bloom, some areas exposed to sunlight feature beautiful forsythia and early-blooming cherry trees. Compared to last year, the sculptures are more colorful and vibrant. During the day, you can appreciate the artworks in full detail, while at night, the illuminated sculptures offer a different kind of charm.

 

 

 

5. Salon in Yangjaecheon

All parks in the area feature barefoot walking paths, so if you are health-conscious, consider giving it a try. You will also find plenty of benches, picnic tables, and a moss garden, making it a relaxing and safe place for both day and night walks. The Yangjae Art Salon event is currently taking place, and I noticed newly installed business district guides. Be sure to check out the recommended dining spots along the way!

 

 

Credits

Writer & Photographer: Jeong-Yoon Lee