Spring Along the Tracks: A Stroll Through Gyeongui Line Forest Park

Finding Spring Along the Rails

Yesterday, I walked the Gyeongui Line Forest Park—a once-abandoned railway turned into a vibrant green path through the heart of Seoul. From cherry blossoms in full bloom to cozy cafés and lively conversations from passersby, the trail was alive with spring. Along the way, I soaked in both the energy of the people and the quiet charm of nature, discovering bits of history tucked between trees and tracks. This post is a photo journey of that peaceful walk, capturing the season, the stories, and the soul of the park.

 

Gyeongui Line Forest Trail – A Path Reborn
Once an abandoned railway, the Gyeongui Line now blooms as a 6.3 km green ribbon through Seoul, lovingly called Yeontral Park. Winding through neighborhoods like Yeonnam-dong and Sinsu-dong, it weaves together city and nature, past and present. Designed to be "unfinished," the trail invites citizens to shape its story—transforming forgotten tracks into a living park, built not just for the people, but with them.

 

Gyeongui Line Forest Park was created above the former Gyeongui railway route, with both the Gyeongui Line and Airport Railroad Express now running underground as a double-track system.

 

 

The Start of Something Beautiful

Starting Gajwa Station

 

 

 

Yeonnam-dong Area

The Yeonnam-dong section runs from Yeonnam Intersection to Hongdae Entrance Station. Along the trail, remnants of old train tracks and station-style rest areas reveal its history as a former railway. The restored Saegyosil Stream and tall ginkgo trees add cool, scenic charm, making this one of the most lively and enjoyable parts of the park.

 

 

 

 

Historic Train Line

 

 

Every season in Korea has its own beauty, but spring feels especially unique—with a lingering chill in the breeze and a gentle warmth growing in the sunlight. The sky takes on a distinct hue, and then come the flowers—oh, the flowers.

 

 

The trail is lined with apartment homes, lively with residents, and surrounded by trendy new restaurants and cafes. It was a lot of fun just admiring the buildings along the way. I stayed on the path, but it would be exciting to wander off and explore the neighborhood shops and spots.

 

 

 

Waugyo Area

Of the 6.3 km Gyeongui Line Forest Trail, the approximately 370-meter section from Exit 6 of Hongdae Station to Sogang University Station is known as the Waugyo Section. This area preserves parts of the old railway tracks, and a railroad crossing—once called the 'Ddaeng-Ddaeng Street'—has been fully restored. While walking through this section, it would be fun to take a detour to the Hongdae area for lunch and to soak in its youthful atmosphere.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ddaeng-Ddaeng Street

 

Sinsu Area

The Sinsu Section of the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail runs from Sogang University Station to Daeheung Station. The Sinsu Section of the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail offers a quieter, more residential atmosphere compared to the livelier areas near Hongdae. This stretch features a peaceful green path lined with trees, benches, and traces of the old railway, creating a relaxed space for walking or unwinding. It's less crowded, making it ideal for those seeking a slower pace and a touch of everyday local life.

 

Railway Boy and Girl Statue ( 철길 소년 소녀상)

 

 

 

 Daeheung Area

The Daeheung Section of the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail stretches from Daeheung Station to Gongdeok Station. During spring, the path comes alive with fully bloomed cherry blossoms, adding a soft, pink glow to the tranquil surroundings. This part of the trail blends peaceful greenery with urban charm, offering a relaxing route through a quieter side of the city. With its thoughtful landscaping, public art installations, and convenient access, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a peaceful break amid the springtime beauty.

 

 

 

 

 

Conclusion 

Walking the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail was more than just a stroll through the city—it was a journey through the many layers of Seoul. The path winds through a vibrant mix of residential neighborhoods, bustling commercial areas, and lively college districts, each adding its own rhythm and color. I was surrounded by energetic locals, moments of quiet charm, and traces of history gently woven into the landscape.

Along the way, I found myself repeating a word I’ve often heard in Korea—“예쁘다.” It’s usually translated as “pretty,” but now I understand it holds something more: a quiet beauty, a heartfelt appreciation, a warmth that lingers. And that’s exactly how this trail felt. 예쁘다, indeed.