What the place is
Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station, on Seoul’s Shinbundang Line, provides access to Maeheon Citizen’s Forest, a large green space in Seocho-gu, southern Seoul. The park was formerly known as Yangjae Citizen’s Forest and covers approximately 358,992 square meters (88.7 acres), or nearly 359,000 square meters. It combines gardens, sports facilities and cultural landmarks, including the Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall. The Seoul Metropolitan Government and Wikipedia: Yangjae Citizen's Forest provide further information.
The station serves as a gateway to recreation and events in the park and surrounding area. Its modern design includes wide platforms, platform screen doors and bilingual signage, with exits providing access to major park entrances and bus stops.
History
Yangjae-dong was historically a rural district on the outskirts of Seoul. Urban development in the 1970s and 1980s transformed it into a modern neighborhood. Construction of the forest began in 1983 and was completed in 1986, as part of Seoul’s efforts to create green spaces and prepare for the 1986 Asian Games and 1988 Seoul Olympics. The park also reflects the city’s modernization. More information on its history is available from KoreaToDo.
Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station opened on October 28, 2011, as part of the Shinbundang Line. It was introduced to reduce congestion and provide faster north–south transit across Seoul. The Shinbundang Line is one of Korea’s first fully driverless subway lines and has automated safety features. See Namu Wiki.
The park was renamed Maeheon Citizen’s Forest in October 2022, in honor of Yun Bong-gil, a Korean independence activist whose art name was Maeheon (Wikipedia: Yangjae Citizen's Forest).
What to see
Park grounds and facilities
The forest has grass fields, an octagonal pavilion, a wisteria trellis, tennis and basketball courts, a children’s playground and an outdoor wedding hall. Wide paved paths, benches and shaded areas make it possible to explore the grounds on foot, with a stroller or in a wheelchair.
The park provides restrooms, including accessible restrooms, drinking fountains and shaded seating. Parking is available for up to 571 cars.
Memorials
- Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall Educational exhibits about Yun Bong-gil and his legacy (Wikipedia: Yun Bong-gil).
- Korean Air Flight 858 Memorial Honors the victims of the 1987 bombing.
- Sampoong Department Store Collapse Memorial Commemorates the 502 victims of the 1995 tragedy.
Together, the memorials make the park a place for reflection as well as recreation.
Nature and community
Maeheon Citizen’s Forest contributes to air quality and provides habitat for birds and small wildlife. It also hosts year-round festivals, concerts and educational programs, and supports outdoor activities and cultural gatherings.
Practical visiting information
Hours and admission
- Park Generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. Some facilities may have their own hours; some sources state that the park is open 24 hours.
- Station Operates daily from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight.
- Admission Free; no park tickets are required.
Getting there and using the station
Take Seoul Subway Line 3 or the Shinbundang Line to Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station. The park is near the station; access information gives Exit 1 or Exit 5, depending on the guide. Multiple bus routes and village buses connect at the station, and multiple bus lines serve the area.
The station has elevators, escalators, barrier-free pathways and tactile paving. The park’s wide paved paths are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, and accessible restrooms are available.
Subway tickets and fares
The Shinbundang Line uses Seoul’s integrated fare system. Tickets can be purchased at machines, or travelers can use rechargeable T-money cards or mobile apps. Fares are distance-based. For current fares and details, see the Seoul Metro official website.
Parking
The park has parking for up to 571 cars, including designated spaces for disabled visitors. Fees may apply, and parking near the park is limited. Public transportation is recommended during peak times.
Tips for visiting
- Weekday mornings and late afternoons are generally quieter. Expect more visitors on weekends and during festival periods, including the Cherry Blossom Festival.
- Spring is a popular season for cherry blossoms, while autumn brings colorful foliage.
- The pavilion, wisteria trellis and memorials are notable spots for photography.
- Outdoor concerts and festivals take place in the park.
- Leashed pets are permitted; owners must clean up after them.
- Visitors who picnic are asked to clean up after themselves.
Nearby places
Yangjaecheon Stream has walking and cycling paths, wetlands and observation decks for birdwatching. The annual Cherry Blossom & Lantern Festival features floral displays and cultural events (KoreaToDo).
Other nearby places include Gangnam, Yangjae Flower Market, Daeseongsa Temple and Seoul Arts Center. Seocho Cultural Center and local eateries offer cultural activities and Korean cuisine.
Nearby accommodation includes The K Hotel Seoul (4-star) and Shilla Stay Seocho (3-star), both with access to the park and other local attractions (Urtrips).
FAQ
What are the visiting hours?
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk, though some sources state 24 hours. Facilities may have separate hours. The station operates daily from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight.
Is admission free?
Yes. No park tickets are required.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes. It has wide paved paths, step-free access and accessible restrooms.
How can I get there by public transport?
Take Seoul Subway Line 3 or the Shinbundang Line to Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station. Multiple bus lines also serve the area.
Is there parking?
Yes. The park has 571 spaces, including designated disabled spaces. Fees may apply.
Are pets allowed?
Yes. Leashed pets are permitted; owners must clean up after them.
Are there guided tours?
Guided tours are offered occasionally, especially during commemorative events. Check official websites for updates.
