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Mudeungsan National Park

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Mudeungsan National Park

Mudeungsan National Park

This national park centered around a 1,187-meter peak in Gwangju. Travelers visit this area for hiking and to see the columnar jointing rock formations. While the actual summit is restricted, hikers can reach Seoseokdae at 1,100 meters to view the surrounding landscape.

Getting There

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

Time Requirement

The amount of time needed depends on the chosen trail. A casual walk in the lower areas takes a few hours, while a full hike to Seoseokdae generally requires a full day.

When to Visit

The park is accessible year-round, with different scenery appearing across the four seasons. Early morning starts are recommended for those hiking to the higher elevations to avoid midday heat and crowds. The park can become crowded during peak foliage seasons and public holidays.

Nearby Attractions

The park can be combined with other local sites depending on your transport:

  • Mudeungsan (1.1km)
  • Soswaewon (4.7km)
  • Hwanbyeokdang (4.8km)
  • Asian Culture Center (6.2km)

Updated September 13, 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 National Park

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Mudeungsan

Nature

Mudeungsan

Standing 1,187 meters high, this mountain is Gwangju's signature peak and South Korea's 21st national park. Since the summit, Cheonwangbong, is off-limits, visitors hike up to Seoseokdae to enjoy sweeping views instead.

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.

4.7 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.

4.8 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.

6.2 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.

6.7 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.

10.1 km away