[Insta Walk] Bukseoul Dream Forest Observatory and Art Center - A Complex Cultural Space in the City

The Fourth Largest Urban Park in Seoul
An Observatory Overlooking Bukhansan and More
Taking a Brief Pause Due to COVID-19
An Art Center Full of Attractions and Activities
Enjoy a Relaxing Cup of Tea at the Cafe
Famous as a Filming Location for the Drama 'Iris'

Bukseoul Dream Forest Observatory (49.7m). To the north, you can see Bukhansan, Dobongsan, and Suraksan, and to the south, Namsan and the Han River are visible. Photo by Suwan Kim suwan@asiae.co.kr

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suwan] Transforming the site that once housed an amusement park and zoo into a cultural space and large-scale park was an excellent choice. This is the story of 'Bukseoul Dream Forest,' an urban park that has become a brand destination attracting visitors from afar. It is said to have even added a premium to nearby apartment prices, making the effects of this 'strategic shift' exceed expectations.

Located in Beon-dong, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, covering approximately 660,000㎡ (200,000 pyeong), this place used to be an amusement park. It opened in 1987 under the name Dreamland. Equipped with amusement facilities, a swimming pool, and a zoo, it was considered the northern Seoul version of Children's Grand Park. Seoul City purchased the site and, in 2009, changed both its facilities and name. They created multiple walking trails and a large lawn plaza, clearly emphasizing its identity as the fourth largest urban park in Seoul after World Cup Park, Olympic Park, and Seoul Forest. At the same time, it was equipped with various complex cultural spaces such as a cultural center, performance hall, and art museum. To increase public interest, the naming process included gathering citizens' opinions. As a result, the name Bukseoul Dream Forest was created by combining 'Bukseoul,' indicating the park's location, and 'Dream Forest,' a Korean expression of 'Dreamland,' which holds nostalgic memories for citizens.

While the observatory here offers outstanding views of Bukhansan, Dobongsan, and Suraksan mountains, the Dream Forest Art Center is truly the main attraction where visitors can enjoy culture and arts year-round. Entering through the back gate of Bukseoul Dream Forest, you immediately encounter a space where art exhibitions and classical performances are regularly held. At places like the Sangsang Toktok Art Museum and Performance Hall, experiential activities for children and parents, as well as various classical concerts, mainly take place. Currently, all performances and exhibitions have been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A representative from the Dream Forest Art Center explained, "Once the COVID-19 situation significantly improves and social distancing measures are eased, we plan to resume family musical performances at venues like the Classical Performance Hall, allowing children and families to enjoy them together as before." The center also features restaurants and cafes. The operating body, Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, aims to establish this place as both a natural and artistic sanctuary.

If you want to climb to the observatory located at a high point to take in the panoramic views and surrounding mountain ranges, you can pass the Art Center and follow the sloped path upward. A slope-type elevator is installed at the spot marked 'Way to Observatory,' allowing those with mobility difficulties to reach the top easily.

Cafe inside Bukseoul Dream Forest Observatory / Photo by Suwan Kim suwan@asiae.co.kr

A small library is located at the entrance to the observatory, filled with donated books lining the shelves. After passing through the library and taking the elevator to the third floor, you will face the observatory. The observatory, designed with floor-to-ceiling glass, offers an unobstructed view of the outside scenery. Since it was selected as a filming location for the drama 'IRIS,' many visitors take photos here. Posters and explanatory signs kindly convey the drama's emotional impact. One floor below, a small caf? serves as another observatory. Visitors can relax with a cup of tea while enjoying the refreshing view through the glass walls.

If you want to enjoy a family stroll, it is also nice to leave the Art Center and visit the wide Jindi Field at Cheongundapwon or the area around Wolyeongji Lake. People wandering in the spacious area under warm sunlight all wear expressions of relaxation and brightness. Seeing the faint smiles on the faces of both adults and children gives the impression that happiness levels can only rise. A woman in her 30s, enjoying a walk with her four- and six-year-old children, said with a bright smile, "The park is spacious, perfect for kids to ride their kickboards. It's so enjoyable to be outdoors after a long time."

Bukseoul Dream Forest has become a place of rest and a stage where visitors gain energy for life. Although cultural events at the Art Center are currently suspended due to COVID-19, it is a place that can be confidently recommended to anyone seeking leisurely happiness at any time.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.