Seoul is a world-class metropolis where ancient tradition, cutting-edge modernity, and rugged nature coexist. For the global fans gathering in Gwanghwamun for the historic return of BTS, the city offers more than just a concert venue—it is a "health city" perfectly designed for exploration on foot. Whether you are looking to recover from travel fatigue or find a moment of Zen before the show, these five destinations provide the perfect balance of physical activity and mental restoration.
Cheonggyecheon: An Urban Oasis Amid Skyscrapers
Just a five-minute walk from Gwanghwamun Square, the roar of the city gives way to the gentle sound of flowing water. Cheonggyecheon is a restored stream running through the heart of the financial district, offering a recessed promenade that feels worlds away from the traffic above. Walking alongside running water has been shown to lower cortisol levels and stabilize mood, making it an ideal spot to dissipate travel stress. At night, the area transforms with emotional lighting, providing a quiet, contemplative atmosphere popular with local professionals and visitors alike.
Seoul Forest: Breathing Room in the City
Located in the trendy Seongsu-dong neighborhood, Seoul Forest is often compared to New York’s Central Park. From Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), a quick transfer to the Suin-Bundang Line brings you to this expansive green space. The park is a hub for wellness, filled with locals practicing yoga, cycling, and running. The lush tree canopy releases phytoncides—natural compounds that stabilize the autonomic nervous system and relieve physical tension. Research suggests that just 20 minutes in such an environment can stabilize heart rate and blood pressure, offering a vital "breather" from the high-energy excitement of the concert.
Inwangsan: The Ultimate Urban Trek
Seoul’s unique geography puts mountains within reach of the downtown core. Inwangsan, situated near Gwanghwamun, offers a manageable trekking course that rewards hikers with a panoramic view of Seoul’s skyscrapers and traditional hanok villages. The summit can be reached in approximately one hour, and international visitors can conveniently rent hiking equipment from the Seoul Urban Hiking Tourism Center. Beyond the view, the incline serves as an excellent cardiovascular workout, triggering the release of dopamine and serotonin to boost your mood before the big event.
Insadong and Ikseon-dong: A Tradition of Wellness
For a more stationary recovery, the neighboring districts of Insadong and Ikseon-dong offer a deep dive into Korean tea culture. Insadong is famous for its traditional tea houses serving antioxidant-rich drinks like jujube (daechu) tea and ginger tea, both known for warming the body and aiding digestion. Nearby, Ikseon-dong Hanok Street features a maze of narrow alleys where historic architecture meets modern café culture. It is an excellent place to unwind and explore small artisanal shops while resting your legs after a long day of travel.
Naksan Park: A Nightscape Along the Fortress Wall
Featured in the Netflix animated film K-Pop: Demon Hunters, Naksan Park offers one of the most beautiful sunset and night views in the city. Located between Jongno-gu and Seongbuk-gu, the park follows the ancient Hanyangdoseong fortress wall. Though the elevation is modest at 125 meters, the uphill walk provides a superior cardiopulmonary workout compared to flat ground—perfect for balancing out the extra calories enjoyed while exploring Seoul’s famous food scene. From the summit, the city lights of Dongdaemun, Namsan, and Jongno create a spectacular backdrop for photography.
[ARIRANG, BTS Returns to the Global Stage]
BTS is scheduled to perform a landmark concert at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21. The event follows the release of ARIRANG on March 20—the group’s first full album in three years and nine months. This comeback is expected to signal a new artistic direction for the seven members.
KorMedi.com will continue to provide coverage leading up to the Gwanghwamun event, including safety protocols for large-scale performances, Seoul-based wellness destinations for visiting fans, and further insights into the health and fitness routines of the BTS members.
