Places of interest #22 in Mapo-gu

Peace Square

4.2 · 420 reviews
Open and expansive
Peace Square, 531 Seongsan-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Interesting facts
1

The square sits on top of what was historically the Nanjido landfill, which held approximately 92 million tons of waste before its ecological transformation.

2

It is an integral component of the 'World Cup Park,' a five-park collection created to commemorate the 2002 FIFA World Cup hosted by South Korea.

3

The park system utilizes methane gas collection systems from the buried waste to provide energy for local facilities.

4

The layout is explicitly designed to reflect the theme of 'harmony between nature and humanity' following the land's previous industrial usage.

Overview

Peace Square is a central open-air plaza located within the expansive Seoul World Cup Park complex in Mapo-gu. It serves as a primary hub for large-scale outdoor events, festivals, and public gatherings in western Seoul. The square is characterized by its vast, paved layout designed to accommodate high foot traffic during major seasonal celebrations. It borders the larger Pyeonghwa (Peace) Park area, which features artificial wetlands and themed gardens. The space is situated on land reclaimed from the former Nanjido landfill, a massive environmental restoration project. It functions as a key transition point between the urban park facilities and the neighboring stadium infrastructure. The layout includes wide pedestrian pathways and minimal obstruction, facilitating views toward the surrounding green spaces and the nearby Han River parklands.

Photo spot

The elevated viewing platforms on the park's periphery offering a wide-angle perspective of the square against the stadium backdrop.

Insider tips

Bring portable sun protection, as the square is largely exposed with very little overhead shade.

Visit during the shoulder seasons to take advantage of the milder weather for walking between the various connected parks.

Check local event calendars before visiting, as the square is frequently closed for private festivals or city-sponsored public events.

What to avoid

Visiting during peak summer heat without adequate hydration, as the asphalt and open design trap significant heat.

Etiquette

Maintain noise levels during organized cultural events and strictly adhere to trash disposal regulations within the park zones.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and sunset views over the park.
Address
Peace Square, 531 Seongsan-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
37.565, 126.896
Get directions
Details
Park FeaturesLarge open plaza, central event space, access to themed gardens and wetlands

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and sunset views over the park..

The elevated viewing platforms on the park's periphery offering a wide-angle perspective of the square against the stadium backdrop.

Close by you'll find Seoul World Cup Stadium, Haneul Park, Peace Park.

South Korea

About Mapo-gu