Yongma Land

Abandoned yet alive. That’s Yongma Land. This defunct amusement park whispers tales of forgotten laughter and flickering neon lights. Yongma Land isn’t your typical abandoned site. It exists in a state of arrested decay, a poignant time capsule nestled in Yongmasan, Jungnang District, Seoul. Opened in 1980, Yongma Land was once a vibrant hub for family fun. Families flocked to its carousel, bumper cars, and octopus-themed ride. However, the arrival of Lotte World in 1989 cast a long shadow over the smaller park. Despite a renovation in 1995 with new attractions, Yongma Land’s popularity waned. In 2011, the city revoked its license, silencing the joyful screams and cheerful music. But Yongma Land’s story didn’t end there. It was reborn. Today, it attracts a different crowd: urban explorers, cosplayers, photographers, and filmmakers drawn to its eerie beauty. The park charges a small entrance fee. This fee allows the current owner to maintain the park in its unique state of decay. Imagine capturing the perfect Instagram shot against the backdrop of a faded carousel or a rusting Viking ship. Yongma Land has become a sought-after location for K-pop music videos. Groups like Crayon Pop, Dreamcatcher, and even solo artists like Baek Ji-young have filmed amidst the decaying rides. It has also graced the screen in K-dramas such as “Cafe Minamdang,” “Heartless City,” and “Sisyphus: The Myth.” Yongma Land is a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia. It’s a place where time stands still, where echoes of the past mingle with the creative energy of the present.