Hugging the Han River west of central Seoul, Sangam-dong is a leafy neighbourhood in the Mapo-gu district. It’s dominated by parks and recreational facilities built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, including the second-largest sporting stadium in South Korea.
Things to do in Sangam-dong
One of the most famous landmarks in Sangam-dong is the Seoul World Cup Station, which was constructed to host soccer matches during the 2002 FIFA World Cup. It was designed in the shape of a traditional Korean kite and with the capacity to seat more than 66,000 spectators, it is the largest rectangular stadium in Asia. When soccer matches aren’t being played, it’s open to the public for guided tours.
Adjacent to the Seoul World Cup Stadium is Pyeonghwa Park, which was created to symbolise world peace and unity in the lead-up to the tournament. It’s here that you’ll find the World Cup Park Museum and UNICEF Plaza, as well as the picturesque Nanji Pond and Hope Forest. A short stroll west will take you to Haneul Park, which offers impressive views across the Han River.
For sightings of wild deer and raccoons, head to Noeul Park, a former landfill site transformed into an eco-park that provides a natural habitat for local wildlife. It’s a popular destination for local residents to walk and jog, featuring a sculpture park and a variety of sporting facilities. From its observation deck, there are impressive views of the Olympic Bridge.
Getting around Sangam-dong
Sangam-dong is around 30 minutes by train from Seoul Station, with subway services connecting to the World Cup, Digital Media City and Susaek stations. Incheon International Airport is an hour away. Most of Sangam-dong’s attractions are within walking distance of a subway station.