Translating as “east of the river”, Gangdong-gu is a leafy district that hugs the banks of the Han River in Seoul’s east. It’s home to several parks that protect the native ecology of its waterways and wetlands, as well as family-friendly attractions and a prehistoric site where 6,000-year-old pottery was uncovered.
Things to do in Gangdong-gu
Spend an afternoon exploring the walking trails that wind through Gildong Ecological Park, which protects a restored wetland home to a variety of native species. Learn about the local ecology in the outdoor exhibition space before soaking up the views across the wetland from the park’s observation deck
North-west of Gangdong-gu is Amsa Ecological Park, which is a popular destination for observing Korea’s migratory birds. It encompasses beautiful reed groves and willows growing on the banks of the Han River, alongside wild roses and tiger lilies that bloom in the spring. In addition to reed warblers, swallows and tits, the park offers regular sightings of scarlet-coloured hairstreak butterflies.
Travelling with kids? They’ll love spending an afternoon at The Zoo, an indoor wildlife park where you can get up close to hyacinth macaws, furry binturongs and an Aldabra giant tortoise. One of South Korea’s best-loved cartoon robots, Taekwon V, is the focus of the V Center, which features interactive exhibits and a 4D film that will immerse you in the birth and life of this Taekwon-do extraordinaire.
Getting around Gangdong-gu
Gangdong-gu is around an hour by train from Seoul Station and two hours from Incheon International Airport. The district is served by Line 5 and Line 8 of the Seoul Subway, as well as an extensive network of buses. Taxis are readily available for getting around.