Olympic Park (Alone Tree)
Build a trip to Seoul
About
Built to host the 1988 Summer Olympics, this massive park is a blend of sports facilities, historical sites from the Baekje Kingdom (Mongchontoseong Fortress), and contemporary art. Its most famous landmark is the 'Alone Tree' (Wang-tta-namu), a solitary tree standing in the middle of a vast, rolling green meadow that has become a viral sensation on Instagram. The park is a sensory delight of open spaces and over 200 outdoor sculptures. Experts recommend taking the 'Hodori Train' for a fun tour of the expansive grounds. Pro tip: The Alone Tree is located near the Mongchon Trench; go early in the morning to get a clean shot without other tourists in your frame, and bring a picnic to enjoy under the shade of the fortress trees.
Highlights
- Iconic lone cypress tree
- Vast hilly grassy fields
- Popular photo hotspot
- Restful natural scenery
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Bicena (Lotte Tower)
Bicena, located on the 81st floor of the Lotte World Tower, offers the highest fine-dining experience in Seoul. The restaurant’s name is a contraction of the Korean words for 'Emptying, Filling, and Sharing,' and the cuisine focuses on refined, modern interpretations of traditional Korean flavors. The sensory experience is dominated by the breathtaking panoramic views of the Han River and the city sprawl. The interior is a blend of modern luxury and traditional Korean aesthetics. Experts recommend the 'Gold Course' for its exquisite use of premium seafood and aged beef. Practical pro tip: Request a window seat at least three weeks in advance to fully enjoy the view; it is a popular spot for anniversaries and special celebrations, so the atmosphere is formal.
Lotte World Tower (Seoul Sky)
Standing as the tallest building in Korea and the 6th tallest globally, Lotte World Tower is a feat of modern engineering inspired by traditional Korean ceramics and calligraphy brushes. Its observation deck, Seoul Sky, features a dizzying glass-floor 'Sky Deck' at 478 meters, offering a heart-racing view of the city directly beneath your feet. The high-speed 'Sky Shuttle' elevator provides an immersive VR journey during the 60-second ascent. Experts recommend visiting just before sunset to watch the city transition from golden hour to a neon wonderland. Pro tip: Use the fast-pass option if visiting on weekends, and don't miss the 123 Lounge for a cocktail with the highest view in the country.
Lotte World Adventure
Lotte World is a major entertainment complex consisting of the world's largest indoor theme park (Adventure) and an outdoor amusement park (Magic Island) linked by a monorail. The indoor section features a giant ice rink and a spectacular glass roof that allows for year-round fun regardless of the weather. Magic Island is situated in the middle of Seokchon Lake and features a fairy-tale castle and high-thrill rides like the Gyro Drop. The experience is high-energy, filled with parades, K-pop music, and the smell of sweet churros. Experts recommend the 'French Revolution' VR coaster for a unique thrill. Pro tip: Purchase your tickets online through travel platforms for significant discounts, and use the 'Magic Pass' app to reserve times for popular rides to skip the lines.
Ttukseom Hangang Park
Ttukseom Hangang Park is one of the most popular riverside parks, famous for its unique 'J-Bug' (Jabeol) building—a long, cylindrical structure that houses a library and cafe with views of the river. Historically, this area was a ferry terminal. The park features a giant windsurfing area, rock-climbing walls, and a large seasonal swimming pool that turns into a sledding hill in winter. The atmosphere is active and lively. Experts recommend viewing the 'Music Fountain' which operates several times a day. Pro tip: This park is directly connected to the subway station (Ttukseom Resort Station, Line 7), making it one of the easiest Hangang parks to access. It's a prime spot for watching the sun set behind the Lotte World Tower.
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