Imagine, a sea of red shirts. The shouts are deafening. It’s the 2002 World Cup. We are standing at Seoul Plaza.
Seoul Plaza is more than just an open space. It is a place where history was written. It is a place where people gather. It is a place where memories are made.
In 2004, the Seoul Metropolitan Government reopened Seoul Plaza. Its purpose was to give the public a place to gather. The environmentally friendly renovation was part of a wider project. The Cheonggye Stream and Gwanghwamun Plaza were also renovated.
Before 2004, this place was a traffic square. There was also an old fountain here for 40 years. It was then demolished to make way for Seoul Plaza.
The plaza’s shape is elliptical. Its total area is 13,207 square meters. The grass area covers 6,294 square meters. There is also an underground water tank. It stores rainwater. This water is used for the sprinklers on the lawn. Forty-eight lights surround the grass square.
Seoul Plaza has seen protests against US beef imports. The Korea Queer Culture Festival has also been held here. “The Amazing Race Australia 4” started right here at Seoul Plaza.
Since 2004, an open-air ice rink appears here every winter. It is open from mid-December to February. After that, the ice rink disappears. The green lawn and the fountain are back in operation.
Seoul Plaza is a smoke-free zone since June 1, 2011. The Seoul Metropolitan Government implemented this ban. Smokers face a fine of 100,000 won if they break the rule.
Seoul Plaza has historical significance. The March 1, 1919, Independence Movement took place here. The pro-democracy movement in June 1987 was also held here. In 1926, the Renaissance-style Seoul City Hall was founded.
The Floor Water Fountain is one of Seoul Plaza’s attractions. It looks like a normal sidewalk. But when you walk across it, water spurts high from the floor holes.
There are 48 floor lights along the grass square. The Fala clock is another attractive feature. Every day at noon, the Fala rings. It sounds like the Boshingak Belfry. The Floor Water Fountain has 35 underwater lights, creating a grand sight.
Seoul Plaza is surrounded by historic attractions. Deoksugung Palace is one of them. Seoul Plaza is in the city center. This makes it a representative attraction of Seoul.
Seoul Plaza is easily accessible. Take Subway Line 1 to City Hall Station. Use Exit 5. You will arrive here after a short walk. Only 89 meters separate the station from the plaza.
Take a moment to appreciate Seoul Plaza. It is more than just a square. It is a symbol of Seoul’s history. It is a place of gathering and celebration. It is a place where memories are made.