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Mudeungsan

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Mudeungsan

Mudeungsan

Mudeungsan is a mountain and South Korea's 21st national park, reaching a height of 1,187 meters. It serves as the primary natural landmark of Gwangju. Travelers visit the area for hiking and to see the columnar joints at Seoseokdae, as the highest peak, Cheonwangbong, is restricted from public access.

Getting There

The mountain is accessible from Gwangju city centre via local bus or taxi. Depending on the specific trailhead and traffic conditions, the journey typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Time Requirement

Visitors should allow a full day for the experience. The time required depends on the chosen trail, but hiking up to the Seoseokdae viewing area and returning to the base generally takes several hours of active walking.

When to Visit

The mountain is accessible throughout the year, with distinct scenery in spring and autumn. Early morning starts are recommended to avoid midday heat and crowds. The park can become crowded during peak foliage seasons and public holidays.

Nearby Attractions

The mountain can be combined with other local sites based on proximity:

  • Mudeungsan National Park (1.1km)
  • Soswaewon (5.7km)
  • Hwanbyeokdang (5.9km)
  • Asian Culture Center (6.4km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Mudeungsan

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Mudeungsan Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

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Gwangju 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

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Good to visit alongside

Mudeungsan National Park

Parks & gardens

Mudeungsan National Park

This national park centers on Mudeungsan, a 1,187-meter peak, and was designated South Korea's 21st national park in 2013. The summit itself is off-limits, but hikers can climb to Seoseokdae at 1,100 meters and take in the scenery.

1.1 km away
Soswaewon

Parks & gardens

Soswaewon

Soswaewon is a traditional garden created by the Joseon-era scholar Yang San-bo, admired for its landscaping in harmony with nature. Regarded as one of Korea's foremost private gardens, it's a lovely spot for a quiet stroll.

5.7 km away
Hwanbyeokdang

Heritage & monuments

Hwanbyeokdang

Hwanbyeokdang is a pavilion on a hill above Gwangju Lake at the foot of Mudeungsan, designated a scenic site for its outstanding surroundings. It's a peaceful place to stroll and take in a sense of the past.

5.9 km away
Asian Culture Center

Museums & galleries

Asian Culture Center

A national cultural facility in Dong-gu, Gwangju, offering exhibitions and programs for exchanging and learning about cultures across Asia. Since opening in 2015, it has become a complex dedicated to introducing Asian culture.

6.4 km away
Wongaksa

Temples & religious sites

Wongaksa

Wongaksa is a Buddhist temple in downtown Gwangju's Dong-gu district, built in 1914 and steeped in history. It's a peaceful place to explore right in the heart of the city.

6.9 km away
Geumdangsan

Nature

Geumdangsan

Located right in the heart of Gwangju, Geumdangsan is easy to access and has gentle slopes, drawing many hikers from early morning. From the summit, you're rewarded with a sweeping view over Pungam Lake and Gwangju World Cup Stadium.

9.8 km away