Seoul Forest, Seongsu, Han River decorated with '167 gardens'... Shall we visit during the May holiday?

Seoul is set to blossom with the '2026 Seoul International Garden Show,' a grand festival designed to weave nature into the fabric of urban life. This ambitious event, kicking off on May 1 and running for 180 days, promises to transform key areas of the city—Seoul Forest, Seongsu, and the Han River—into a vibrant tapestry of 167 distinct gardens.

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Seoul Forest Park will be the center of the '2026 Seoul International Garden Show,' which will be held for 180 days from May 1 to October 27.

This initiative goes beyond mere beautification; it's a strategic move to foster a 'garden city' model, expanding green spaces from Seoul Forest to the Han River banks and connecting them throughout residential areas. The show boasts a diverse range of gardens, from those designed by renowned international landscape architects like Henri Bava to creations by domestic talents, corporate sponsorships, and community participation. This inclusive approach ensures a rich and varied experience for all visitors.

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Through this exhibition, Seoul City plans to expand garden spaces from Seoul Forest to the areas of Seongdong-gu and Gwangjin-gu and along the Han River, and present a 'garden city' model that connects gardens throughout residential areas.

What sets this year's show apart is its emphasis on interactive engagement. Visitors can look forward to guided tours extending into Seongsu, artist talks, and programs designed for those with mobility challenges. The integration of technology, such as QR codes for multilingual smart guide tours and an augmented reality treasure hunt, 'Garden Hunters,' promises a modern and immersive experience. The opening week alone will feature a packed schedule of performances, including orchestral concerts, jazz, and fashion shows, alongside food trucks and markets supporting local businesses.

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In addition to the invited gardens by French landscape architect Henri Bava and domestic landscape architect Lee Nam-jin, international competition gardens, corporate/institutional donation gardens, and citizen participation gardens, and pop-up gardens have been prepared.

From the perspective of The Hankyoreh, this event represents a significant step in enhancing the quality of life for Seoul's citizens. By expanding green infrastructure and creating accessible, engaging natural spaces, the city is investing in the well-being of its residents. The festival's commitment to safety, with ample rest areas and robust crowd management plans, further demonstrates a thoughtful approach to hosting such a large-scale event. We believe this 'garden city' vision will inspire similar initiatives nationwide, promoting a healthier and more sustainable urban environment for all.

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The garden docent tour will be operated in connection not only with Seoul Forest but also with Seongsu-dong, and programs for accompanying the transportation vulnerable and artist explanations are also prepared.