From these repurposed oil tanks rises a symphony of culture. Welcome to the Oil Reservoir Culture Park in Seoul.
This remarkable park in Mapo-gu wasn’t always a haven for art and recreation. In the 1970s it served a vital but less glamorous purpose. It was an oil depot. Twenty-two of these depots stood near Seoul World Cup Stadium. They were built to prepare for future oil crises. The Mapo Oil Depot was one such facility. For over four decades it silently stored vital resources.
Then came the 2002 World Cup. The depot was decommissioned. Its purpose fulfilled the land lay dormant. For thirteen years the tanks sat empty. Then the Seoul Metropolitan Government had a vision. A vision of urban renewal and sustainability. Citizens helped transform the site. The Oil Reservoir Culture Park opened in 2017.
Six former oil tanks remain. They have been brilliantly repurposed. They now house performance venues exhibition halls cafes and learning spaces. Tank 3 is a striking exception. It stands untouched. A testament to the past. It blends into the natural landscape. It’s a reminder of the depot’s history and the economic climate of the time.
Visit Tank 5 the Story Hall. Explore its 360-degree media hall. Discover the museum. Learn about the depot’s transformation. See artifacts from its past. You’ll see helmets tank models and work uniforms. They bring history to life.
At Tank 4 the Culture Complex special exhibitions and performances are held. Often they focus on art culture and the environment. The sheer scale of the tanks is impressive. They stand 15 meters tall. In the past kerosene was stored within those steel walls.
The Oil Reservoir Culture Park also has open areas. The Culture Yard is a large space for festivals and gatherings. There are walking paths vegetable gardens and art installations. One such installation is The Voice of the People. It’s a bronze sculpture. It’s made of old speakers. It plays recorded sounds. They represent diversity and communication.
The Glass Pavilion Tank 1 is a multi-purpose communications space. Glass walls and a roof contrast with its original retaining walls. It seamlessly connects to the rock bed of Mount Maebongsan. The vibe shifts with the seasons and lighting.
The Indoor Stage Tank 2 offers both an indoor and an outdoor performance area. The outdoor stage is nestled amongst trees and cliffs. The lush greenery is especially vibrant in the summer.
Finally don’t forget Tank 6. This isn’t an original tank. It’s a newly constructed building. It’s made of recycled steel from Tanks 1 and 2. It is a community center. It also has a rooftop deck. You’ll have views of the city and the sky. And Cafe Tank 6 offers a perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink.
The Oil Reservoir Culture Park is more than just a park. It is a symbol of Seoul’s innovative spirit. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist. It’s a place where you can explore art history and nature all in one place.