Seokchon Lake Park in Jamsil is a super popular spot for locals, but isn’t overly high on most travelers’ Seoul itineraries. But it definitely should be.
*Psst… this post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.
Seokchon Lake | 석촌호수 | Songpa Naru Park
Seokchon Lake is also known as Songpa Naru Park, and it’s located in surprise surprise, Songpa-gu on the east side of Seoul.
Contrary to popular belief, Seokchon isn’t an artificial lake. It was created in 1971, during the Hangang Riverbed development project, when silt accumulated upstream and part of the Han River was separated into a lake.
Today, Seokchon Lake is made up of an East Lake and a West Lake, separated by the 10 lane Songpadae-ro freeway. You can stand on either side of this road for a birds-eye view of both lakes.
Lotte World Adventure’s Magic Island and the Seoul Nori Madang are on the West Lake. Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory, Songpa Tourist Information Centre, and Historic Site 101 can be found near the East Lake.
Planning a trip to Korea?
Connect with other travellers | Ask and get answers to all your travel questions | Learn about all the best things to do in Korea | Join my Seoul and Beyond, South Korea Travel Planning Group on Facebook now.
Korea Travel Essentials
Don’t board that plane to Seoul until you’ve sorted out accommodation, transport from the airport, and your data on the ground.
Visit Seokchon Lake in Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter
Walking or jogging is one of the most popular things to do at Seokchon Lake Park. The scenery changes in every season, so it’s worth checking out at different times of the year.
The most beautiful months are April to May, for cherry blossoms and spring flowers, and October, due to the incredible autumn foliage in Korea.
The path covers a total distance of 2.5 km in a figure 8 pattern, and winds around both lakes. It’s made out of soft urethane, so it’s easy on the knees and feet.
There are multiple stairways up and down to the street, so don’t worry about getting trapped on lake level and being forced to walk the whole loop. It’s possible to pop down for even a 10 minute nature break if you need it.
Festivals and Events at Seokchon Lake Park
The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is undoubtedly the most famous event at Seokchon Lake Park, but don’t limit yourself to just the month of April in Korea. Throughout the year, there are various exhibitions and performances to check out.
Head into the Songpa Tourist Information Centre on the East Lake for the full scoop on current events and festivities.
Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival | 석촌호수 벚꽃축제
Seokchon Lake is one of the most popular places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul. No big surprise given that both the West and East lakes are gorgeously ringed by pink cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
More than 5 million people visit during the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, with numbers only increasing year over year.
Typically, the Festival happens sometime during the first 2 weeks of April, and lasts for about 10 days.
There’s no entrance fee, and Seokchon Lake never closes, so don’t feel shy about visiting anytime to take a stroll. If you want to beat the crowds, head there on a weekday in the early morning.
Seoul Nori Madang | 서울놀이마당
The Seoul Nori Madang is an outdoor stage, located in Seokchon Lake Park. You can’t miss it, because it looks just like a massive hanok.
On Sundays at 3PM, from April to October, you can see traditional Korean folk performances there, absolutely free. If you visit on big holidays, like Chuseok or Seollal, you’ll be treated to extra special performances.
This is really one of the best places in the city to see traditional Korean folk arts, like pansori, fan dances, plays, and pungmulnori. There’s enough space for 1300 people at the Seoul Nori Madang, and you can just show up anytime after 3 to enjoy performances. Seating is unassigned.
NANTA! | Nanta is Korea’s longest running show for good reason. I laughed so hard watching it, I cried. It’s slapstick, non-verbal, and percussive, so anyone can enjoy it, regardless of language. Book tickets here.
Special Art Events and Performances on Seokchon Lake
The East Lake behind the Lotte World Mall is often used for floating art exhibitions, related pop-up stores and performances. In the past, they’ve included Florentijn Hofman’s gigantic “Rubber Duck,” and “Sweet Swan,” family, as well as a 28-metre floating exhibit by KAWS, and the colourful Supermoon project from FriendsWithYou.
These events guarantee huge crowds of people, especially on weekends and evenings. For a more peaceful experience, visit in the morning. Otherwise, expect lots of jostling for pictures.
Jeongwol Daeboreum | 서울놀이마당
Jeongwol Daeboreum celebrates the first full moon after Seollal with a number of traditions designed to bring good luck and great health in the coming year.
The highlight of Daeboreum is the daljib taewugi (달집태우기), where a triangular shaped moon house (the daljib) made out of straw and twigs is set on fire to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck
Seokchon Lake hosts a free Jeongwol Daeborum event every year, complete with traditional performances, and a huge bonfire.
The timing of this event changes with the Lunar Calendar, but if you want to catch it in 2026, it’s on Tuesday, March 3rd.
Essential Day Tours from Seoul
What | Where | Cost | Why Join this Tour | Full Details |
DMZ Tour | Demilitiarized Zone / Paju / Imjingak | from 72,100 won | Parts of the DMZ MUST be visited on a guided tour, due to security clearances. Optional add-ons like suspension bridge, or DMZ gondola available. | ; |
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress + Korean Folk Village | Suwon and Yongin | 78,500 won | Hwaseong is a majestic UNESCO Fortress. The Korean Folk Village is a vast living museum of the Joseon Dynasty. Both are south of Seoul in satellite cities. | ; |
Nami Island + Surrounding Region | Gapyeong / Chuncheon | from 38,000 won | Most popular day tour near Seoul, but spread far apart from each other, with few public transit options. Huge range of add ons to choose from, like Alpaca World to the Rail Bike to the Garden of Morning Calm. | ; |
Attractions near Seokchon Lake
The 2 big attractions near Seokchon Lake Park are the Seoul Sky Observatory at the top of Lotte World Tower on the East Lake, and Magic Island on the West Lake.
Lotte World Magic Island
Lotte World is made up of a huge indoor amusement park called Lotte World Adventure, and an outdoor section called Magic Island. On Magic Island, you’ll find thrilling rides, like the Gyro Swing, Bungee, Atlantis and much more.
You must have tickets to Lotte World, in order to access Magic Island.
KOREAN SCHOOL UNIFORM RENTAL | Renting a Korean school uniform and taking a pic in front of the carousel is required for any visit to Lotte World Adventure. It’s easy to grab one at Ehwa Korean School Uniform, near Seokchon Lake. Check details here.
Moon Boats on Seokchon Lake
I often get questions about how to take these moon boats out onto Seokchon Lake, and the short answer is that you can only do it from inside Lotte World.
If you already have tickets to Lotte World, and are spending the day, you can walk out to Magic Island, walk to the end of the pier, and buy tickets for the Moon boats on-site. They’re motorized, and they’ll give you a quick lesson on how to steer.
The moon boats can accommodate 2 adults and a small child max, but there are also UFO boats that you can book for up to 6 people.
DISCOVER SEOUL PASS | Free entry into Lotte World is one of the attractions that makes the Discover Seoul pass worth getting. It also includes a 5 day eSIM, and a Climate Card for unlimited public transit around Seoul. Check full details here.
Visit the Seoul Sky Observatory | Walk across the Sky Bridge
Lotte World Tower is the highest building in Korea at 555 metres tall. You’ll find it on the East Lake, directly behind the new Lotte World Mall.
Head up to the Seoul Sky Observatory on the top 7 floors of the building for absolutely breathtaking views of Seoul. Budget around 2 hours to check it out fully. Grab discounted tickets here.
If you’re feeling extra daring, you can sign up for the heights defying Sky Bridge Tour at the top Seoul Sky Observatory.
During the one hour tour, you’ll cross the 11 metre bridge that connects the 2 peaks of the Lotte World Tower. You can even dangle your feet off the bridge at a height of 541 metres!
Seokchon Lake with Kids
The best thing about Seokchon Lake Park is that you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy it. I’ve spent a ton of time there with my 9 year old daughter, and it’s the perfect family friendly place to spend an afternoon.
Here’s my rundown of the best things to do at Seokchon Lake with kids.
Feed the Fish, Ducks, and Geese
Hungry koi fish can be found all around Seokchon Lake. They tend to gather near the big exercise area on the corner of the West Lake, and under the bridge between the 2 lakes. My daughter always has a blast watching the fish eat the bread or crackers she throws down to them.
UPDATE: So, I had no idea about this, but apparently, you’re not supposed to feed the fish. My bad.
Play on the exercise equipment
There are several exercise areas available around Seokchon Lake that are free to use. We usually visit the one on the West Lake.
You’ll find all kinds of equipment for the kids to play on and climb, as well as hula hoops, badminton racquets, skipping ropes and more.
Play the Piano
There are 2 pianos stationed around the lake, and there’s always a line of kids waiting to plunk away on the keys. One can be found on the edge of the East Lake, and the other is under the bridge between the 2 lakes. Be sure to use the hand sanitizer that’s provided on top of the piano!
Watch games of Baduk
Groups of men gather near the exercise area on the West Lake, to play and observe games of baduk or go. Things get pretty competitive and it’s always great fun to watch as the black or white stones are slammed onto the board with gusto.
Seokchon Lake Park: Essential Info and FAQs
1. How do I get to Seokchon Lake Park?
Seokchon Lake is located in Jamsil. It’s easiest to go to Jamsil Station and take Exit 2 or 3. Walk about 200 metres and you’ll find the lake next to both the old Lotte Mall, and new Lotte World Mall across the street.
2. Is there an admission fee?
It’s totally free to enter Seokchon Lake Park and see performances at Seoul Nori Madang, however there are admission fees for attractions like Lotte World Adventure and Seoul Sky Observatory.
3. What are the opening hours?
The outdoor parts of Seokchon Lake Park are open 24 hours a day, so you can go for a midnight run if you wish. The cafes, restaurants and attractions inside or near the park have varying hours.
4. What food and beverage are available at Seokchon Lake Park?
Hosu is a fine dining restaurant with a view of the lake. Jbout has coffee, desserts, casual food and seating on 2 separate levels near the Songpa Tourist Information Centre. Maison au Thierry has baked goods, coffee and ice cream available for take-away. There’s also a section of Lotte World Magic Island with burgers and beer that’s accessible without admission tickets.
5. What amenities are available?
There’s public parking, restrooms, seating areas, benches and water fountains available at Seokchon Lake.
Seokchon Lake Park is worth a visit! Now you’re all set with everything there is to do in the area. Plan on going?
