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Sejong Lake Park

Sejong Lake Park (세종호수공원; map) is the centerpiece of Sejong City. Opened in 2013 and spanning 697,246 square meters, it is South Korea’s largest artificial lake. It was designed to offer recreation, education, and cultural experiences in an eco-friendly environment.

The park offers a network of trails, diverse ecosystems, and proximity to Sejong’s government and cultural landmarks, like the modern architecture of the Sejong National Library.

Key Attractions

Sejong Lake Park was designed to be more than a recreational space; it is a model for urban ecological design and a symbol of Sejong City’s commitment to sustainable development. It integrates leisure, culture, and environmental stewardship.

Whether attending an event on Stage Island, cycling through its scenic paths, or learning about wetland conservation, visitors can experience a balance of relaxation and engagement.

Themed Islands

At the heart of the park are five distinctive artificial islands, each offering unique experiences:

  1. Stage Island (무대섬; map)
    • Designed to resemble smooth pebbles, this 672-seat amphitheater hosts concerts, festivals, and cultural events.
    • Nighttime illuminations enhance the viewing experience, creating a scenic backdrop against the lake.
  2. Festival Island (축제섬)
    • A space dedicated to cultural celebrations and artistic performances, the island is a central venue for community events.
  3. Water Play Island (물놀이섬; map)
    • Ideal for families, this island features shallow water play areas, a 150-meter sandy beach, and facilities for interactive water games.
    • During summer months, it is one of the most popular spots in the park.
  4. Water Flower Island (물꽃섬)
    • A botanical haven filled with aquatic plants and walkways, this island serves as an educational space for visitors to learn about water ecosystems.
  5. Wetland Island (습지섬; map)
    • A conservation-focused area showcasing the biodiversity of wetlands, with interpretive signs and observation decks for eco-education and birdwatching.

Trails and Paths

Sejong Lake Park features 8.8 kilometers of walking trails and 4.7 kilometers of bike paths that allow visitors to explore its varied landscapes.

Pine Tree Path, Ginkgo Tree Path, and Autumn Foliage Forest: Themed trails that highlight the beauty of seasonal changes.

Trails are designed for accessibility, offering smooth surfaces for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Seho Bridge

The 270-meter-long Seho Bridge (세호대교; map) is a walking bridge that connects key areas of the park, offering sweeping views of the lake and its islands.

Named after the Spanish word for “mist” (Seho), it reflects the foggy mornings that often shroud the lake in tranquility.

Its architectural design includes integrated lighting, making it a highlight during evening strolls.

Additional Features

  1. Cultural Installations
    1. Throughout the park, visitors can find sculptures and art installations.
  2. Fountains and Water Features
    1. The park includes interactive fountains and aesthetic water features that operate during specific hours.
  3. Rest Areas and Facilities
    1. Shaded benches, picnic spots, and kiosks are placed throughout the park.

Nearby Highlights

Let’s explore some highlights that surround Sejong Lake Park.

Sejong National Library

Just beside Sejong Lake Park, the Sejong National Library (국립세종도서관; map) is an architectural marvel designed to integrate with the park’s natural surroundings. The building’s clean lines and eco-friendly design are complemented by open-air terraces and panoramic views of the lake.

  • Collections and Resources: The library houses an extensive collection of government publications, academic resources, and general reading materials.
  • Visitor Amenities: Visitors can enjoy reading lounges, digital archives, and cultural exhibitions. The open-air terraces provide a tranquil spot to read or relax while overlooking the park’s scenic landscapes.
  • Community Engagement: Regularly hosted events include book talks, educational workshops, and art exhibitions.

Sejong National Arboretum

Just a short distance from Sejong Lake Park lies the Sejong National Arboretum (세종국립수목원; map), the first urban arboretum in South Korea. Covering 65 hectares, it showcases over 2,800 plant species and features a variety of attractions that blend botany, education, and culture.

  • Themed Gardens: Highlights include the Korean Traditional Garden, which replicates iconic historical gardens like the ones in Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, and the Mediterranean Garden, inspired by Alhambra’s lush courtyards.
  • Glass Conservatory: The massive glass structure, shaped like a blooming flower, houses rare tropical and Mediterranean plants, such as Baobab trees and Victoria water lilies.
  • Interactive Programs: The arboretum offers guided tours, workshops, and seasonal exhibitions, allowing visitors to learn about Korea’s plant biodiversity and its role in the environment.
  • Eco-friendly Design: The arboretum emphasizes sustainable practices, using recycled water systems and solar energy to support its operations.

Central Park

Sejong Central Park (세종중앙공원; map) borders Sejong Lake Park. It expands the recreational area with lush greenery and family-friendly facilities. This spacious urban park is designed to promote physical activity, relaxation, and social engagement.

  • Picnic Areas: Designated picnic zones with tables and benches make it a great spot for outdoor meals or gatherings.
  • Jogging and Walking Paths: Paths wind through the park’s green spaces and offer a serene environment for joggers and walkers.
  • Playgrounds and Fitness Zones: Families with children can enjoy the playgrounds, while adults can use the fitness stations and open fields for recreational sports.
  • Event Spaces: The park hosts community events, from outdoor yoga sessions to seasonal festivals, creating a lively atmosphere for residents and visitors.

Visiting Tips

  • Transportation: The park is a 2.5-kilometer cycle (10 min) from the Geumgang Bike Path (directions) and accessible by car, with multiple parking lots available. Public transportation options include buses from Daejeon and nearby cities.
  • Hours and Admission: Open year-round from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Admission is free, with additional fees for specific activities such as water sports or performances.