SEOUL, Apr. 9 (Korea Bizwire) – The Seoul Metropolitan Government has completed construction of the “Jamsil Natural Water Playground” in Jamsil Hangang Park and opened it to the public, officials announced on April 8.
The new playground is the first fruit of the city’s “Great Han River Project” aimed at restoring the natural environment along the Han River by transforming aging swimming facilities built over 30 years ago into natural water recreation areas.
Unlike conventional swimming pools with concrete structures and paved surfaces, the natural water playground emphasizes the use of natural materials and expanded green spaces to restore the area’s ecological character.
Of the total 28,000 square meter site, 13,952 square meters — about 50 percent — has been landscaped with 15,440 trees of 18 species including Korean red pines, as well as 146,056 flowering plants.
The main water areas feature a “Wonder Pool” and an “Infinity Wall” facing the Han River. Towards the back, a gradual downward slope in the terrain culminates in a 60-centimeter deep “Joy Pool,” with a separate shallow children’s pool alongside.
Next to the children’s area, a natural stream runs through a bed of pebbles, offering a space for wading and foot baths in the shallow waters. An adjacent sandbox allows children to play, with facilities to rinse off after.
The three themed pool areas are surrounded by grassy rest areas, wooded walking trails, and an illuminated water path for evening strolls.
The city plans to open the natural stream to the public for the spring season starting April 9, while the main swimming areas will officially open in June along with other Han River pools.
The stream will be open daily from noon to 6 p.m. until October, except Mondays.
Following Jamsil, Seoul aims to complete similar natural water playground transformations at Gwangnaru Hangang Park by 2025 and Jamwon and Mangwon parks by 2028 as part of the river revival project.
“Jamsil Hangang Park’s water playground has been reborn as an open leisure and cultural space that can be enjoyed year-round,” said Joo Yong-tae, head of Seoul’s Future Han River Bureau. “We will ensure seamless progress so that all upcoming water facilities become new local landmarks.”
Image credit: Seoul City / photonews@koreabizwire.com
