Stroll through the romance of Baekje Prince: Iksan Seodong Park, a place where hidden stories blossom

Have you heard of the Seodongyo legend? The place where the poignant love story of Princess Seonhwa of Silla and Prince Seodong of Baekje lives on is Iksan Seodong Park. Beyond just beautiful scenery, this place, where traces of time and art blend together, offers a special experience to visitors.

This place originated as part of the Geumma Tourist Complex development project starting in 1990, and was first introduced to the public in 2004 under the name ‘Geumma Sculpture Park’. Embracing Geumma Reservoir, which resembles the Korean Peninsula, visitors can experience both splendid natural scenery and historical atmosphere while walking through the park.

Today, we explore the diverse charms offered by Iksan Seodong Park, presenting a special travel guide to awaken your senses. Shall we embark together into this beautiful space created by art and nature, following the footsteps of a Baekje era romance?

An Art Walk Following the Traces of Time, the Heart of Seodong Park

Seodong Park is spread across a vast area of approximately 40,000 pyeong, encompassing Geumma Reservoir. As you walk along the reservoir’s circular path, you can encounter various themed sculptures, including stories of Prince Seodong of Baekje and Princess Seonhwa, offering the delight of walking through an outdoor art museum.

The Love of the Baekje Prince, Blooming in Sculpture

• Seodong and Seonhwa Themed Sculptures The sculptures of Seodong and Princess Seonhwa, which can be considered the core of the park, invite imagination about their romantic story. Feel the love and poignancy embedded in each delicate sculpture.
• Twelve Zodiac Animal Statues The Twelve Zodiac Animal Statues, which add a Korean ambiance, offer the fun of appreciating the unique personalities and meanings of each animal. If visiting with children, there’s also the joy of finding their birth year’s zodiac animal.
• Other Sculptures Contemporary sculptures installed throughout the park blend with nature to showcase unique aesthetic beauty. Stopping to ponder the meaning of the artworks will also be a good experience.

Rest and Inspiration Offered by the Waves of Geumma Reservoir

At the center of the park lies Geumma Reservoir, which resembles the map of the Korean Peninsula. The sky reflected on the calm waters and the surrounding scenery are a painting in themselves. Seodong Park offers various resting spaces and attractions against the backdrop of this beautiful reservoir.

Checklist of Must-Visit Spots for Unforgettable Moments

1. Cool Water Stream, Fountain The fountain, soaring up to 5m, offers a refreshing sight in summer and a clear, exhilarating feeling just by looking at it. The rainbows created by the spray are a bonus!
2. Relaxed Leisure, Lawn Square The expansive lawn square is perfect for enjoying a picnic or for children to play freely. Enjoy relaxed time amidst nature on the green grass.
3. Cultural Enjoyment Venue, Outdoor Stage The outdoor stage, where various performances and events are held, injects vitality into the park. It’s a good idea to check in advance if you can enjoy diverse cultural events during your visit.
4. The Face of Geumma Reservoir, Observatory The observatory, offering a panoramic view of the reservoir, is the best spot to admire the beauty of Seodong Park. Especially the sunset scenery, painted with evening glow, presents an unmissable spectacular view.

Every early May, the Iksan Seodong Festival, themed around the Seodong legend and Seodongyo, is grandly held at Seodong Park area. If you visit during this period, you can experience even richer sights and activities. Festival schedules may vary annually, so it’s advisable to check before your visit.

How to Get to Seodong Park? & Must-See Things Nearby

For those who wish to visit Iksan Seodong Park, where love, art, and nature harmoniously blend, we provide detailed location information along with fascinating nearby attractions. Plan a fruitful trip with an efficient itinerary.

How to Get to Seodong Park by Public Transportation

• By Bus From Iksan Station or Iksan Express Bus Terminal, take a city bus towards Geumma (e.g., Bus No. 555, 575, etc.), then alight at the ‘Seodong Park’ or ‘Geumma-myeon Office’ stop for convenience. The park is within walking distance from the bus stop.
• By Car You can easily find it by searching for ‘Seodong Park’ on your navigation system. Parking spaces are available within the park, making it convenient for private car users.

Iksan Attractions Worth Visiting Together

Feel the Breath of Baekje Culture

• Mireuksaji Temple Site Mireuksaji Temple Site, the largest temple site in Korea and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where the legend of King Mu of Baekje and Princess Seonhwa is enshrined. It is an essential course for deeply understanding Baekje culture in conjunction with Seodong Park.
• Wanggungni Historic Site Presumed to be the royal palace of King Mu’s era in Baekje, this site allows a glimpse into the grandeur of the Baekje royal palace with its magnificent Five-Story Stone Pagoda. Together with Mireuksaji, you can experience the essence of a Baekje history trip.
• National Iksan Museum This museum exhibits Baekje culture, focusing on artifacts from Mireuksaji. Visiting here before or after Seodong Park will enhance your understanding of Baekje history, making for a richer experience.

Tips for Enjoying Seodong Park 200%

• Comfortable Shoes Essential It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes to walk through the vast park, spanning 40,000 pyeong, and along the reservoir’s circular path.
• Enjoy Seasonal Charms Each season offers a different beauty, such as cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, cool fountains and lush greenery in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. Look forward to scenery appropriate for your visit time.
• Prepare Simple Snacks Convenience facilities within the park may be limited, so it is advisable to bring simple drinks or snacks.
• Find Photo Spots Various places like Geumma Reservoir, sculptures, and the outdoor stage are photo zones. Don’t miss the fun of finding special spots to take once-in-a-lifetime photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the admission fee for Seodong Park?
Seodong Park is an open space for both citizens and visitors, offering free admission and usage without a separate entrance fee. Feel free to visit and enjoy the beautiful nature and artworks.

Q2. Is parking convenient at Seodong Park?
Yes, sufficient parking facilities are provided within Seodong Park for visitors. If you are using a private car, you can park conveniently.

Q3. Can I visit with pets?
Generally, pets are allowed in the park, but basic pet etiquette such as leash wearing and carrying waste bags must be strictly observed. Please be mindful not to cause inconvenience to other visitors.

Q4. How much time does it take to tour Seodong Park?
As the park is large with many attractions, we recommend at least 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours if you want to leisurely look around. If you walk the entire circular path of Geumma Reservoir, more time may be required.

Q5. Are there places to eat near Seodong Park?
Around Seodong Park, in the Geumma-myeon area, there are local restaurants and eateries. If you wish to taste Iksan’s distinctive cuisine, head towards Geumma-myeon downtown or the nearby Iksan city center for various options.