Stepping Outside Seoul into Seongnam, a Landscape Where Building Forests and Green Lakes Coexist
Experience the sophisticated night view of Pangyo and the relaxed vibe of Yuldong Park in Seongnam, a vibrant city of about 930,000 residents.
Seongnam's First Impression Is Much More Colorful Than Expected
Seongnam is right next to Seoul yet brings together three districts, each with its own distinct texture. The clean new town scenery of Bundang, the futuristic IT streets of Pangyo, and the human-centered alleys of Sujeong-gu and Jungwon-gu coexist here. With giant parks and lakes unfolding among the forest of buildings, it's a truly wonderful city to take a weekend trip.
A Time Where History and Modernity Intersect
Seongnam is actually one of South Korea's first planned new towns. It started under the name Gwangju Daedanjei when people gathered in the 1970s due to Seoul's unauthorized shack-clearing project. The city, which started out on harsh sandy winds, has now grown into a mega-city embracing Pangyo, the heartbeat of South Korea's IT industry. This is precisely why the crude traces of the past and refined modernity strangely overlap.
Seongnam Spaces You Must Walk Through
If you are wondering where to go in Seongnam, choose places where you can simultaneously feel the city's sophisticated aspects and the comfort provided by nature. These are perfect spots for a light weekend stroll or spending time with a delicious cup of coffee.
A futuristic vibe overflows among the sparkling glass buildings. It's full of trendy cafes and restaurants, making exploring a lot of fun.
The walking path along the giant lake is superb. It's the perfect place to clear your complicated mind while looking at the open waterfront.
A UNESCO World Heritage site spanning across Seongnam and Gwangju. As you walk along the fortress wall, Seoul's downtown view unfolds before your eyes.
A cultural and artistic space where various performances and exhibitions never end. Just walking through the quiet sculpture park lifts your mood.
Located in downtown Bundang, it's like an oasis in the forest of buildings. Traditional houses and lakes harmonize to create a serene atmosphere.
A massive traditional market held every 4th and 9th day of the month ending in those numbers. You can fully experience the rustic charm of old marketplaces and various street foods.
Green Comfort Encountered in the Heart of the City
You might think Seongnam is only full of buildings, but if you turn your head just a little, giant mountains and lakes warmly wrap around the city. Especially the heavy ridges of Namhansanseong and the bicycle paths running long along Tancheon Stream are the most precious daily resting spots for Seongnam citizens. Catch your breath in nature, which changes its clothes every season.
Namhansanseong (๋จํ์ฐ์ฑ)
You can breathe fresh air while walking through forest paths touched by the traces of history. Fall foliage is especially beautiful in autumn.
Tancheon Stream (ํ์ฒ)
A stream crossing Seongnam from north to south. It's great for running while watching the evening sunset on the well-maintained walking and bicycle paths.
Bulgaksan Mountain (๋ถ๊ณก์ฐ)
A cozy mountain nestled behind Bundang. With gentle slopes, it's a hiking course that beginners can climb without burden.
The Taste and Style of Seongnam Remembered by the Five Senses
Thanks to the history of people from all over the country living together, Seongnam offers diverse culinary options. From a hot bowl of gukbap tasted at Moran Market to sophisticated brunch cafes in Pangyo, the range of choices is very wide. Every autumn, the Namhansanseong Culture Festival is held with traditional performances and various events, making it a good idea to align your schedule for a visit.
Delicious Scents Wherever Your Steps Take You
It may feel like a new town lined with franchises, but hidden within are old-established eateries that have held their ground for a long time and local favorite restaurants. These are great places to heartily fill your stomach to wrap up a day of itinerary.
You can enjoy affordable, nostalgic street foods such as old-style offal dishes, kalguksu (knife-cut noodles), and hotteok opened on market days.
Located below Namhansanseong, you can taste slow-cooked dak-baeksuk (chicken soup) and Neungi mushroom duck baeksuk while viewing nature.
It's great for enjoying a sophisticated dinner ranging from trendy Asian food to craft beer in a clean indoor setting.
Small Tips for Traveling in Seongnam
Seongnam is truly convenient for public transit travel as Seoul Subway Bundang Line, Shinbundang Line, and Line 8 are connected like a spiderweb. Especially in Pangyo and Bundang areas, parking spaces can be narrow, so public transportation is recommended. Since Namhansanseong and Yuldong Park have many visitors on weekends, try targeting morning hours.