Naksan Park, Seoul: A Comprehensive Visitor’s Guide

Introduction

Naksan Park is a tranquil hilltop park in central Seoul known for its sweeping panoramic views of the city . Perched on Naksan Mountain (about 125 meters high), the park offers a unique blend of natural scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural charm. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to stroll along the old fortress walls, watch the sunset, and escape the hustle and bustle below. This guide will introduce you to Naksan Park’s history and significance, highlight its scenic trails and viewpoints (by day and night), point out nearby attractions like the Ihwa Mural Village and Daehangno arts district, and provide practical tips for your visit. Whether you’re a history buff, an avid hiker, or a photography enthusiast, Naksan Park is a must-see when exploring Seoul.

Historical Background and Significance

Naksan Park’s story is intertwined with the history of Seoul itself. Naksan (literally “Camel Mountain”) earned its name because its profile was said to resemble a camel’s hump . In former times it was even nicknamed Taraksan (“Camel Milk Mountain”) because a royal ranch on its slopes supplied dairy products to the king . During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), Naksan was revered as one of the city’s four guardian mountains, along with Bugaksan (north), Namsan (south), and Inwangsan (west) . These mountains formed the natural boundaries of the capital Hanseong (old Seoul), and Naksan marked the eastern edge of the walled city. Its prominence made it strategically important: in the late 14th century, Seoul’s founders built a defensive stone fortress wall over Naksan’s ridge as part of the 18-kilometer ramparts encircling the city . The name of the great eastern gate, Dongdaemun (Heunginjimun), literally means “Great East Gate,” reflecting its role as the main eastern entry point in these city walls .

Historically, Naksan was also treasured for its natural beauty. In the Joseon era, scholar-officials (yangban) would climb Naksan to admire the famous sunset views over the city . However, the area faced hardship in the 20th century—during the Japanese occupation many parts of Naksan were quarried away or demolished, drastically reducing the mountain’s size . In the 1960s and afterward, dense housing sprang up around its base as Seoul expanded . To protect what remained of this green hillside and its historical features, the city launched a restoration project and officially opened Naksan Park in 2002 . Today the park not only preserves a piece of Seoul’s natural and historical heritage but also serves as a community space and tourist attraction. Within the park you’ll find remnants of cultural history like Biudang, a modest pavilion marking the site of a 15th-century scholar’s home (legend says he lived so humbly that he’d sit under an umbrella indoors when it rained through his leaky roof) . Naksan Park’s establishment has thus helped rejuvenate the area, marrying centuries-old heritage with a modern recreational park for all to enjoy.

The Seoul City Wall and Fortress Trail

One of Naksan Park’s most significant features is the Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) that cuts across its slopes. A 2 km stretch of this stone wall runs through the park, from Hyehwamun (a small northern gate near Daehangno) to Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun, the main East Gate) . This section is part of the 18.6 km fortress that once enclosed the entire city, built in 1396 to protect the capital from outside invasions . The wall here stands about 5–8 meters high, an impressive reminder of Seoul’s 600-year-old urban defenses . What makes Naksan special is that you can literally walk alongside history – the park has a well-maintained walking trail that hugs the course of the wall, allowing visitors a leisurely stroll with views on one side of the ancient stones and on the other side of the sprawling modern city .

Visitors stroll along the historic Seoul City Wall in Naksan Park, with downtown Seoul visible beyond the fortress ramparts. The wall’s pathway provides a scenic walking trail that is popular with hikers and history enthusiasts alike. As you follow this route, you can admire how Seoul’s centuries-old fortifications coexist with the modern skyline in the background.

Walking the fortress trail is a highlight of any visit. Starting near Hyehwa (in the Daehangno area), you can follow the wall southward/uphill through Naksan Park and eventually descend toward Dongdaemun. Alternatively, you can begin at Dongdaemun and climb upward—the choice is yours. The entire walk is not very long (the Naksan section is just a couple of kilometers), but be prepared for some steep sections along the way. One TripAdvisor reviewer noted that the walk up from the subway “might be a tad challenging” due to the incline, but it’s relatively short and well worth it for the views of the wall and city from the top . Along the path, informative signs (in Korean and English) explain various features of the wall, its construction, and the history of the gates. There are also several lookout points and rest spots. For instance, about midway you’ll come across Naksanjeong Pavilion, a picturesque wooden gazebo built in traditional style that offers an excellent vantage point over the cityscape . From spots like this, you can appreciate just how the wall snakes through the urban landscape and imagine the era when Seoul was a smaller walled city contained within these very stones.

Park Features and Scenic Viewpoints

Despite its relatively small size and low elevation (just over 100 meters tall), Naksan Park is packed with points of interest . At the park’s main entrance (near Hyehwa-dong) there is a Naksan Exhibition Hall, a small gallery that introduces the origin and history of Naksan with maps, photographs, and exhibits – useful for understanding the park’s background (admission is free) . Nearby stands a striking hexagonal pavilion and an open plaza often used by local residents. In fact, Naksan Park is a true neighborhood park as well as a tourist site: you’ll notice locals walking their dogs or using the outdoor exercise equipment along the paths. The park provides benches and fitness machines at intervals, so you can take a break, stretch, or just sit and soak up the view . There are also a few recreational facilities like badminton and basketball courts and a senior community center, reflecting the area’s community use .

Of course, the biggest draw is the scenery. As you ascend, panoramic vistas of Seoul open up. The higher you go, the more of the city you can see – from the high-rises of downtown and Jongno, to landmarks like the blue tile roof of Gyeongbokgung (on a clear day), and most prominently the N Seoul Tower perched on distant Namsan Mountain. Naksan Park was historically famous for its sunsets, and you can still catch a gorgeous sunset view today with the golden light spilling over the city’s skyline . In the late afternoon, many photographers set up at viewpoints to capture the city bathed in twilight colors. One particularly lovely spot is the designated “Seoul Night View Observation Point,” marked in the park (according to a local guide) – from here you can see Namsan Tower and the surrounding cityscape perfectly framed . Even in daytime, every turn of the trail offers a new angle: looking west, you’ll see the dense grid of central Seoul; looking east, you might glimpse the residential neighborhoods beyond the old city limits.

The park’s natural environment adds to the charm. Wildflowers and seasonal foliage brighten the trails – in spring and summer the greenery is lush, and in autumn the leaves add color (with some beautiful yellow ginkgo and red maple trees). Naksan is even described as a “hidden gem” where you can walk a quiet fortress path “adorned with wildflowers amid bustling Seoul” . For example, in early fall you might find patches of cosmos flowers blooming along the walking route, adding splashes of pink and white against the stone wall . The blend of nature and city here makes for wonderful photos. Popular photo spots include the stretches of the old wall (many visitors like to snap photos walking atop or alongside the fortress stones with the city in the background) and of course the vibrant murals in the neighboring village (more on that below). Don’t forget to occasionally turn around while you hike up – the view looking down the slope, with the wall leading your eye into the city below, is one of the best perspectives, especially when the light is just right.

Nighttime Views at Naksan Park

Naksan Park is especially magical after dark. In fact, it’s often hailed as one of the best night views in Seoul . As evening falls, path lights along the trails turn on and illuminate the fortress wall, creating a romantic atmosphere  . You can walk along the ramparts under the glow of old-fashioned lamps, with the twinkling skyline of Seoul spread out in all directions. The park’s altitude and location give an almost 360-degree night panorama: you’ll see the downtown skyscrapers lit up, traffic flowing along arterial roads, and landmarks like N Seoul Tower shining on the horizon (its beacon often changing colors). The contrast of the ancient city wall in front of you with the modern neon city beyond is breathtaking.

Naksan’s nightscape is so beautiful that it has been used as a filming location for numerous K-dramas and films . It’s easy to see why – the setting is romantic and atmospheric. Many Seoul residents actually come to Naksan Park in the evening specifically to enjoy the night view; in particular it’s a popular date spot. On any given weekend night, you’ll spot couples sitting on benches or along the wall, chatting or quietly taking in the glittering city lights  . Don’t let that deter you if you’re not part of a couple, though – the park at night can be equally enjoyable for solo travelers or friends. It tends to be peaceful (far above the noise of traffic) and you might even have long stretches of the trail to yourself on a weeknight. The official recommendation is to be sure to “enjoy the dazzling nightscape of Seoul” from Naksan Park at least once  – it truly lives up to its reputation.

The Seoul cityscape sparkles at night as seen from Naksan Park. The ancient fortress wall is artfully illuminated by lamps, and beyond it the countless lights of downtown Seoul create a stunning panorama. Many visitors linger after sunset to capture photos of the city lights and savor the tranquil, romantic ambiance on the mountaintop.

Practical considerations: Naksan Park is open 24 hours, so you can visit at night without any worry about closing times . In fact, some people come late in the evening to avoid any crowds and have a quieter experience. The path is well-lit and generally safe, but as always in a park, use common sense – stick to the main lit trails after dark. If you visit in winter, bundle up as the hilltop can get chilly and windy at night. And bring a camera or good smartphone, because the night views are photogenic (though remember to adjust your settings or use a night mode for the best results). One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote that the “view [was] great, especially at night,” even if the hike up was a bit tiring – the payoff is clearly worth it !

Nearby Attractions

After exploring Naksan Park, you’ll find that the surrounding area has even more to offer. The park sits at the junction of several interesting neighborhoods: the artistic Daehangno district is just to the north/west, the colorful Ihwa Mural Village clings to its lower slopes, and the bustling Dongdaemun commercial area lies at the foot of its eastern side. Here’s a look at these nearby attractions, all of which you can include in the same outing as Naksan Park.

Ihwa Mural Village (Ihwa-dong)

On the lower western slopes of Naksan Park is Ihwa Mural Village, a once-quiet residential neighborhood that has become famous for its street art. In 2006, the Ministry of Culture initiated the “Naksan Project,” rallying about 70 artists, students, and volunteers to revitalize this aging hillside community with public art  . They painted murals on walls, staircases, and rooftops, and installed whimsical sculptures throughout the maze of narrow alleys. The result is an open-air art village – as you wander uphill through Ihwa-dong’s lanes, you’ll encounter mural after mural: giant flowers blooming on the side of a house, a string of cartoonish fish swimming up a flight of stairs, and even painted “angel wings” inviting visitors to pose for a photo. Finding the murals is an adventure in itself, as they’re tucked in various corners – part of the fun is stumbling upon hidden artwork in the alleys . This neighborhood art initiative transformed Ihwa into one of Seoul’s most Instagrammable spots and a symbol of urban revitalization.

Aside from the art, Ihwa’s location offers great views looking out over Seoul. As you climb the steep steps through the village, don’t forget to turn around – you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping panoramic view of the city behind you  . In fact, the outlook from Ihwa was historically celebrated as one of the “top five” scenic viewpoints for Seoul’s aristocrats back in the Joseon era . Today, you can see landmarks like Namsan Tower on the horizon and the dense city center below, framed by the rustic charm of the village’s rooftops. Many visitors combine Naksan Park and Ihwa Mural Village in one trip: for example, you can start at Hyehwa Station and walk up through Ihwa-dong’s mural-filled alleyways (catching the art and views along the way) to reach Naksan Park at the top.

While Ihwa Mural Village is very photogenic and fun, please be respectful when visiting. Remember that this is a real residential neighborhood with many long-time locals (often older residents) who live there. The surge in tourism unfortunately brought some problems – there have been complaints about noise, litter, and even trespassing by overzealous tourists. In 2016, a few frustrated residents famously painted over several of the most famous murals (including the popular “flower stairway” and “carp fish stairway”) because of the “excessive noise and trash” caused by visitors . This incident was a wake-up call that while the murals are public art, the village is not an amusement park – it’s a home for people. So by all means enjoy the art, take photos (the remaining murals still provide plenty of great shots), but do keep your voices down, avoid filming people’s houses without permission, and maybe patronize a local café or shop while you’re there to support the community. Visiting on a weekday or earlier in the day can also mean fewer crowds. With a little consideration, the Ihwa Mural Village can remain a welcoming and vibrant spot for everyone.

Daehangno (Daehak-ro) – Seoul’s Theater District

Just north of Naksan Park (around Hyehwa Station) lies Daehangno – also known as Daehak-ro or “University Street.” This area is Seoul’s premier performing arts and theater district, giving off a creative, bohemian vibe . The main street, Daehak-ro, runs from Jongno 4-ga up to Hyehwa Rotary, and is lined with dozens of theaters, live performance halls, and music venues of all sizes . Here you can find everything from big commercial theaters showing Korean renditions of Broadway musicals, to tiny basement playhouses where indie troupes stage original plays. Street performances, buskers, and impromptu cultural events are common, especially around Marronnier Park, the small park at the heart of Daehangno that serves as a popular open-air stage and gathering place.

Daehangno gets its name (“College Street”) from the fact that Seoul National University’s campus was once located here, and although the university moved decades ago, the area still retains a youthful, laid-back atmosphere with many students and young adults frequenting its cafés, bars, and eateries . In the evening, the neighborhood comes alive with people looking for dinner and a show. You might catch groups of friends discussing a play they just watched, or young couples on a date, grabbing street food from vendors. Compared to some other nightlife districts, Daehangno is more artsy and relaxed – think indie music gigs, small art galleries, and quirky themed coffee shops in addition to the theater scene. There are also plenty of restaurants (everything from Korean BBQ to budget-friendly student grub) and pubs around. If you have time after Naksan Park, it’s worth wandering through Daehangno to soak up the local culture. Even if you don’t see a performance, the creative energy is palpable. As one travel review noted, Daehangno has “numerous theaters and a distinctively youthful vibe, with shops and food catering mainly to university students and young adults” . In short, it’s a great area to enjoy dinner or coffee and experience a different side of Seoul’s culture. Hyehwa Station (Line 4) is the transport hub for this area, located just a 5–10 minute walk from Naksan Park’s entrance, so Daehangno and Naksan Park pair together nicely in an itinerary .

Dongdaemun – Historic Gate and Shopping Hub

Descending Naksan Park on the eastern side will lead you toward Dongdaemun, one of Seoul’s most famous districts. The name Dongdaemun means “Great East Gate,” and refers to the historic Heunginjimun Gate located here – the very gate that once served as the eastern entrance to the walled city . This massive gate, with its distinctive double-layered roof and attached semicircular barbican wall, is a must-see piece of Seoul’s heritage. Originally constructed in 1396 (and most recently rebuilt in the 19th century), Dongdaemun Gate is a designated National Treasure and stands today as a striking reminder of the Joseon Dynasty era right in the middle of a modern city . You can view the gate up close (there’s a pedestrian plaza around it), and also observe how the old city wall extends from the gate – in fact, the Naksan section of the wall connects directly to this point. There is even a Seoul City Wall Museum nearby (inside Dongdaemun City Wall Park) for those who want to delve deeper into the history of the fortifications; it has free exhibits about the wall’s construction, restoration, and the role of Heunginjimun.

Historically significant as it is, today “Dongdaemun” also refers to the vast shopping and entertainment zone that has grown up around the gate. This area is one of Seoul’s major fashion and retail hubs, famous for its sprawling markets and late-night shopping. Just steps from the gate is Dongdaemun Market, a network of both indoor and outdoor markets and malls selling textiles, clothes, accessories, and just about everything else. You’ll find high-rise fashion malls like Doota, Migliore, and apM, which are open well into the night (some operate nearly 24 hours), catering to shoppers and wholesale buyers looking for the latest trends. In the backstreets, smaller shops and street vendors offer knock-off designer goods, fabrics, leather items, and a plethora of Korean street snacks to keep you fueled while browsing. The neighborhood buzzes with activity after dark – it’s not uncommon to see midnight shoppers hauling bags of garments, or groups of friends eating fried chicken and beer at 2 AM after a shopping spree. Indeed, Dongdaemun is renowned for its 24-hour shopping, making it a paradise for night owls .

One of the crown jewels of modern Dongdaemun is the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), an ultramodern architectural landmark designed by the late Zaha Hadid. Its futuristic, curvy silver facade is hard to miss and has become a popular photo spot for tourists. The DDP is a multi-purpose cultural complex – it houses design exhibition spaces, museums, event halls, and a design market. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth walking around: there are often art installations on its grounds, and the building itself lights up beautifully at night. (In the past, the DDP’s plaza was famous for the LED Rose Garden, a temporary art display of thousands of lit artificial roses, which drew huge crowds for nighttime photography.) The DDP also sits on the site of the former Dongdaemun Stadium, and incorporates some historical artifacts in its design, like restored sections of the wall and old fountain relics. Between the DDP’s cutting-edge style and the ancient Dongdaemun gate across the street, this area showcases Seoul’s blend of old and new in dramatic fashion.

For visitors to Naksan Park, including Dongdaemun in your itinerary is easy. If you hike down along the fortress trail heading south, you will end up right at Heunginjimun Gate (the East Gate). From there, you can explore the gate and then dive into the shopping district or visit DDP. Conversely, you could start your journey at Dongdaemun (reachable via Dongdaemun Station, Lines 1 & 4, or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Lines 2, 4 & 5) and hike up the wall from the gate to Naksan Park. This is slightly more strenuous as you’ll be going uphill most of the way, but it’s a fantastic route for those who want to experience the city wall in its entirety – just pace yourself and enjoy the historical scenery on the climb. Either way, the proximity of Naksan Park to Dongdaemun means you can seamlessly go from viewing Seoul’s skyline in quiet nature to immersing yourself in one of its busiest urban marketplaces, all in the same trip.

Visitor Information and Tips

Visiting Naksan Park is relatively easy and very rewarding. Here’s the essential information you need to plan your trip, along with some helpful tips to make the most of it:

Hours and Admission

Naksan Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and admission is completely free of charge  . This means you can come whenever you like – early morning for sunrise, daytime for a pleasant walk, evening for sunset/night views, or even late at night for a quiet cityscape gaze. The park isn’t gated, so you can enter or leave at any time. (The only exception is the small Naksan Exhibition Hall at the park’s entrance, which has limited hours – roughly 9:00am to 6:00pm, shorter in winter – but this is optional to your visit.) Because the park is always open and free, it’s a great spontaneous destination; you don’t need tickets or reservations.

One thing to note: since it’s always open, there isn’t much lighting beyond the main paths at night, so stick to the illuminated routes after dark for safety. But rest assured, there is no curfew – many people visit in the evening specifically because the park’s night ambiance is famous.

Getting There

Location: Naksan Park is located in Jongno-gu, on a hill between the neighborhoods of Hyehwa/Daehangno (to the north and west) and Dongdaemun/Ihwa-dong (to the south and east). Its street address is 41, Naksan-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul .

By Subway: The easiest way for most visitors to reach Naksan Park is via Seoul Subway Line 4 to Hyehwa Station. Take Exit 2 at Hyehwa Station – from there it’s about 500 meters (5-10 minutes) on foot to the park entrance . The walk will lead you through some small streets of Daehangno and up into the Ihwa-dong area. You’ll likely see signs pointing toward Naksan Park or Ihwa Mural Village; if in doubt, follow the uphill road (Naksan-gil) or use a maps app. The route is not difficult, but note that it is an uphill walk and involves some stairways or steep streets as you near the park. Wear comfortable shoes because the last stretch can be a bit of a workout. (If you prefer a more gradual slope with fewer stairs, you can approach via the road that leads to the parking lot on Naksan-gil instead of through the mural village stairways.)

By Bus: Several city buses service the general area (e.g. buses to Hyehwa Rotary or Seonggyungwan University stops). If you’re coming from elsewhere in central Seoul, it might be convenient to bus to Hyehwa Rotary and then walk. However, due to the hilly terrain, there’s no bus that goes straight up to the park. Most visitors find the subway to be the simplest public transport option.

By Taxi/Car: You can also take a taxi directly to Naksan Park. In Korean, tell the driver “낙산공원 (Naksan Gongwon), 이화동” and they should know the area. Taxis can drive up Naksan-gil and drop you near the park’s entrance. If you are driving your own car, be aware that parking is very limited at Naksan Park – the lot only has about 29 spots . A small hourly fee is charged (around 300 KRW per 10 minutes as of 2024) . On weekends especially, the lot may fill up quickly. Given the narrow streets, driving is not recommended unless necessary; using public transit or a taxi and then walking is usually simpler.

From Dongdaemun: If you’re already near Dongdaemun, you can reach Naksan Park by walking. From the Dongdaemun Design Plaza or Heunginjimun Gate area, head north along the outside of the fortress wall – there is a path that starts there and ascends Naksan (look for signs for Naksan Park or for the City Wall trail). This route is a uphill hike but quite direct. It takes roughly 15–20 minutes on foot from the Dongdaemun gate to the top of Naksan Park . Alternatively, you could take a short taxi ride from Dongdaemun to the park if you want to save your legs for the park itself.

Accessibility

Naksan Park’s hilly terrain means it’s not fully accessible in all areas, but efforts have been made to accommodate visitors with disabilities. The park has accessible features such as a designated parking area for those with disabilities, handicap-accessible restrooms, and some paved pathways that can be used by wheelchairs or strollers . If you have a stroller or wheelchair, the best approach is via the main park entrance on Naksan-gil (where the parking lot is), rather than through the Ihwa Mural Village stairs. From that entrance, a winding paved path (a bit steep in sections) leads up into the park and intersects with the city wall trail. While you may not be able to access every lookout or the highest pavilion due to stairs, you can still reach a significant portion of the park and enjoy the views from slightly lower vantage points.

If you have mobility issues but still want to experience the views, consider taking a taxi up, as mentioned, to minimize the climbing. Once at the park, there are benches for resting. Elderly visitors from the local community frequent the park, often enjoying the exercise equipment or just the scenery, so you’ll be in good company if you take it slow. Just keep in mind that after rains, some stone or wooden steps might be slippery, and in winter the paths could be icy – exercise caution during inclement weather.

For those without mobility concerns, you’ll still want to wear good walking shoes. The paths are a mix of paved sections, wooden steps, and dirt or gravel in some parts. High heels or slippery sandals would not be ideal. A moderate level of fitness is fine – as mentioned, the park is not very high, and anyone who can manage a few flights of stairs should handle Naksan Park’s inclines with no problem. If you do get a bit winded, there are plenty of spots to stop and catch your breath while admiring the view.

Tips for Visiting
• Best Time to Visit: To experience all of Naksan Park’s charm, many recommend going in late afternoon and staying through sunset into early evening. This way, you can see the panoramic views in daylight and enjoy the famous nightscape. The golden hour (just before sunset) is fantastic for photos, as the light is soft and the city starts twinkling. Nighttime offers the cooler temperatures in summer and the city lights. That said, if you prefer a quieter experience, early morning is also lovely – you might catch the sunrise and you’ll almost have the park to yourself. Midday on a clear day is great for visibility (you can see farther), but can be hot in summer. The park has limited shade on the upper parts, so bring a hat or sunscreen if you go at noon.
• What to Bring: Since there are no vendors inside the park, it’s wise to carry a bottle of water or some hydration, especially if you’re hiking up on a warm day. A small snack isn’t a bad idea either; you might want to sit and picnic with a view. At night, a light jacket is smart even in warmer months – the hilltop breeze can be cool. And of course, bring a camera or charged phone for photos. You’ll likely end up taking many, given the scenery and interesting sights.
• Photography Tips: If you’re into photography, Naksan Park will spoil you. Some classic shots include: the fortress wall curving down the mountain with Seoul’s skyline in the distance (try framing this around sunset or nighttime for dramatic contrast of the illuminated wall and city lights ); close-ups of the wall’s stone textures with the city out of focus behind; and candid shots of locals or travelers walking the trail for a storytelling vibe. In Ihwa Mural Village, the murals themselves are the stars – popular murals might have small queues for photos, so patience is key. One etiquette tip: if you see signs asking not to take photos at certain murals (or times of day), respect them, as they’re usually posted at residents’ requests. Generally, avoid using loud camera drones in the park or village, especially after dark, to keep the peace.
• Stay on the Path: While exploring, stick to the official paths in the park. There are some steep drop-offs near the wall or undeveloped forest patches; wandering off-trail could be unsafe and also might harm the vegetation. The trails that are open to public are clearly defined and mostly fenced where necessary. Similarly, in the mural village, walk in the alleys and do not enter any residential gates or yards.
• Combine with Other Sights: As detailed above, Naksan Park pairs well with visits to Ihwa Mural Village (for art and local culture), Daehangno (for food or a show), and Dongdaemun (for shopping or the Design Plaza). You could feasibly see all in one long half-day, but that would be quite packed. Consider allocating a full afternoon and evening: e.g. arrive Hyehwa in afternoon, explore Daehangno a bit, go up through Ihwa murals, enjoy sunset at Naksan Park, then head down to Dongdaemun for night market and late dinner. It makes for an amazing day mixing nature, art, history, and modern Seoul.
• Safety and Etiquette: Naksan Park is generally very safe. It’s in a central area and even at night there are usually other people around (couples, photographers, etc.). Still, basic caution is advised at night – stick to lit areas and avoid any dark isolated corners. The park is patrolled occasionally by police or park staff. As always, keep your valuables secure, though incidents are rare. Trash bins can be scarce, so be prepared to carry out any garbage you produce (like empty water bottles). The community appreciates visitors who keep the park clean. Lastly, if you’re visiting in the late hours, try to keep noise down especially when coming back through the residential streets.

By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable visit to Naksan Park. It’s a place that truly captures a bit of everything Seoul has to offer: natural beauty, historical depth, vibrant art, and stunning cityscapes. Enjoy your visit, and don’t forget to take a moment at the top of Naksan to simply breathe and take it all in – the sprawling metropolis of Seoul on one side, the quiet guardian mountain on the other, and you standing right at the meeting point of past and present.

Sources
• Visit Seoul – Naksan Park (Official Travel Guide)   
• Wikipedia – Naksan  
• Seoul Metropolitan Gov – Photos of Today: Naksan Park  
• Seoul Metropolitan Gov – Photos of Today: Ihwa-dong Mural Village  
• JoongAng Daily – “Murals attract visitors, and trouble, to quiet villages” 
• Visit Seoul – Daehak-ro (Daehangno) Area Guide  
• VisitKorea (KTO) – Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun) Gate 
• Zaha Hadid Architects – Dongdaemun Design Plaza description 
• Visit Seoul – Naksan Park at Night (FAQs)  
• Visit Seoul – Naksan Park Transportation/Info  
• TripAdvisor Reviews (via VisitSeoul) – Naksan Park