The park was built on what was once the Nanji Island landfill, which held over 90 million tons of waste.
The central stream was rehabilitated using treated water to create a self-sustaining wetland habitat.
It is part of the larger World Cup Park, which connects five distinct ecological zones including Pyeonghwa, Haneul, Noeul, and Nanjimangwon parks.
Soil and methane gas collected from the old landfill are continuously monitored and vented through designated pipes hidden within the park's landscaping.
The park serves as an educational site for ecological succession, demonstrating how landfill sites can be converted into functional urban forests.
Nanjicheon Park is a reclaimed ecological green space situated within the World Cup Park complex in Seoul. The park was constructed as part of the Nanji Waste Landfill stabilization project to restore native plant life and soil quality. It features a long, winding stream that serves as the park's central axis, surrounded by extensive walking paths and forested buffer zones. The terrain is relatively flat, designed to provide a natural transition between the urban surroundings and the nearby Han River park areas. It offers specialized facilities for various sports and passive recreation, including dedicated spaces for basketball and gateball. The park serves as an essential green lung for the Mapo-gu district, maintaining a focus on reforestation rather than ornamental gardening.
The wooden footbridge spanning the central stream with the forest canopy in the background.
Bring insect repellent during summer months as the wetland areas can attract mosquitoes.
Follow the designated trails to avoid trampling the restored forest undergrowth.
Combine your visit with the neighboring Haneul Park if you intend to hike for views.
Attempting to climb the steep hills leading to Haneul Park directly from the Nanjicheon stream paths instead of using the provided park stairs or roads.
Refrain from entering the stream or damaging the ecological restoration zones; pets must be kept on leashes.
