As spring arrives in Korea around mid-March, the weather slowly becomes warmer and more comfortable for outdoor activities. While the breeze can still feel a bit chilly at times, the season is perfect for enjoying nature and exploring historical places.
If you are looking for a peaceful destination near Seoul where you can enjoy both nature and Korean history, Seooreung Royal Tombs (서오릉) in Goyang is a wonderful place to visit.
Located just outside Seoul, Seooreung is one of the most beautiful royal tomb complexes from the Joseon Dynasty. The area is famous not only for its historical significance but also for its quiet forest paths that are perfect for walking.
For families, especially those visiting with children or strollers, this place is surprisingly comfortable and relaxing. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Seooreung, including its history, entrance fee, parking information, and helpful tips for families.
What Are Seooreung Royal Tombs?
Seooreung literally means “Five Royal Tombs in the West.” It is a royal cemetery complex from the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) that contains several tombs of kings, queens, and royal family members.
Today, Seooreung is part of the larger group of Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, which were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 due to their outstanding historical and cultural value.
Even though it is a royal burial site, the atmosphere of Seooreung is not heavy or solemn. Instead, it feels more like a vast forest park filled with tall trees, peaceful walking paths, and fresh air.
Many locals visit the area simply to take a quiet walk, enjoy nature, or spend time with family.
One interesting historical figure connected to Seooreung is Jang Hui-bin, also known as Royal Noble Consort Hui. She is a famous figure in Korean history and often appears in Korean historical dramas. Her tomb is located within this royal tomb complex, making Seooreung even more interesting for visitors who enjoy Korean history and culture.
Visitor Information: Opening Hours and Admission
Before planning your visit, it’s helpful to know the basic visitor information.
Opening hours vary slightly depending on the season.
From February to May and September to October, the site is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
During the summer months (June to August), Seooreung stays open a little longer, usually until 6:30 PM.
In winter (November to January), the closing time is slightly earlier, around 5:30 PM.
The ticket office typically closes one hour before the park closes, so it is recommended to arrive earlier in the day.
Admission fees are very affordable.
Adults between the ages of 25 and 64 pay 1,000 KRW for entry.
Visitors under 24 or over 65 can enter for free with proper identification.
Another good tip is that Korea has a special event called Culture Day, which takes place on the last Wednesday of every month. On that day, admission to many cultural sites, including royal tombs, is free for everyone.
Why Seooreung Is Great for Families
One of the best things about Seooreung is how comfortable it is for families with children.
Unlike many historical sites that require steep hiking or long climbs, Seooreung has wide and relatively flat walking paths. This makes it very convenient for parents pushing strollers or for visitors using wheelchairs.
The trails are surrounded by tall trees, which provide shade and create a calm and refreshing atmosphere.
There are also clean restroom facilities throughout the park, and some of them include nursing rooms, which are especially helpful for parents visiting with infants.
For children, the forest environment itself becomes a natural playground. Kids can observe trees, birds, insects, and seasonal flowers while walking along the paths.
Because the space is so large and open, children can enjoy running around more freely compared to crowded city parks.
For families who want a quiet nature walk without leaving the Seoul metropolitan area, Seooreung is truly an ideal destination.
Parking and Transportation
Getting to Seooreung is quite easy, especially if you are traveling by car.
Address
334-92 Seooreung-ro, Deogyang-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
There is a large parking lot located right at the entrance, which makes visiting with strollers or young children very convenient.
Parking is generally paid, but the location is extremely close to the entrance, which helps a lot when unloading strollers or preparing for a family walk.
If you prefer public transportation, buses from Seoul also stop near the entrance, although driving is usually the most convenient option for families.
Important Rules to Know Before Visiting
Because Seooreung is an important historical and cultural heritage site, there are several rules visitors should follow.
Pets are not allowed inside the royal tomb complex.
Eating meals or having picnics inside the park is also not permitted, although carrying bottled drinks is generally allowed.
Bicycles, scooters, and other personal mobility devices are restricted within the tomb areas to protect the historical structures and ensure the safety of visitors.
These rules help preserve the cultural heritage of the site so that future generations can also enjoy and learn from it.
Dining Near Seooreung: A Local Food Village
Another great reason to visit Seooreung is the food.
The area near the entrance is well known among locals as “Seooreung Food Village.” Many restaurants have been operating there for decades, making it a popular dining destination for families and groups.
Some of the most popular dishes in the area include:
• Korean charcoal-grilled chicken (Tongdak)
• Korean BBQ such as Galbi
• Traditional barley rice dishes (Boribap)
There are also several large bakery cafés nearby where visitors can enjoy coffee and dessert after a relaxing walk.
Many families like to combine a walk at Seooreung with a nice meal nearby, making it a perfect half-day trip from Seoul.
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem Near Seoul
Seooreung Royal Tombs offers something unique that is difficult to find in many tourist spots.
It combines Korean history, peaceful nature, and family-friendly walking paths all in one place.
While it may not be as famous as some major tourist attractions in Seoul, that is actually part of its charm. Seooreung feels calm, spacious, and relaxing, making it a wonderful escape from the busy city.
For visitors who want to experience a different side of Korea — one that blends history with quiet forest landscapes — Seooreung is definitely worth visiting.
Whether you are a traveler exploring Korea, a resident looking for a peaceful weekend walk, or a parent searching for a family-friendly outdoor destination, Seooreung Royal Tombs is truly a hidden gem near Seoul.
