The Seoul International Garden Show 2026 will be held at Seoul Forest from May 1 to October 27, 2026. The previous event was held at Boramae Park, but this time it’s taking place at Seoul Forest. Since I often go to Seoul Forest with friends for picnics or walks, I decided I had to check out this event. So, I went right on the opening day!
I’ll also share my experience at the Pokémon Mega Festa 2026, which was held as part of the Seoul International Garden Show 2026. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, the event took place around Seoul Forest and Seongsu Station. However, it was so crowded that the event was actually canceled at one point. I’d like to tell you about that.
Why You Should Visit Seoul International Garden Show 2026
For this year’s Seoul International Garden Show 2026, the 150,000-pyeong site of Seoul Forest has been transformed into a massive garden, designed to allow many people to visit and explore. It will be held for over 180 days, marking the largest scale and longest duration in its history. Based on the slogan “Seoul, Green Culture,” more than 150 gardens have been created. Companies and individuals participated to decorate these gardens in unique and beautiful ways. You can check the full map and schedule on the official Seoul International Garden Show 2026 website.
This is not an event exclusively for Koreans to view or participate in; it is an exhibition that foreigners can fully enjoy as well. Since stunning gardens were created in collaboration with entertainment companies such as SM Entertainment and Musinsa, you will be able to appreciate the collaboration between K-culture and gardens. Also, as mentioned earlier, if you are a fan of Pokémon, you can stroll through the Pokémon Secret Forest and view the beautifully decorated Pokémon gardens.
Seoul Forest Visit Information
- Dates: May 1 – October 27, 2026
- Location: Seoul Forest and around Seongsu Station.
- Admission: Free
- Getting There
- Seoul Forest Station (Suin-Bundang Line) – Exit 3 (5-min walk)
- Ttukseom Station (Line 2) – Exit 8 (10-min walk)
Here is a tip from me
If you are using Ttukseom Station (Line 2), after getting off the subway, just follow the direction where most people are going, and you will most likely find Seoul Forest. This is because most people are heading towards Seoul Forest during the event period. If you accidentally exit the wrong gate, don’t panic! Check out my Wrong Direction? Try using the Seoul subway 15-minute rule guide to save your money.
Gardens and Various Events
I visited Singapore last June, and one of the most impressive places there was Gardens by the Bay. They had created a park on a vast site, and I could see many tourists visiting. I was also captivated by the spectacular sight at night, where colorful lights illuminated the giant trees. The Seoul International Garden Show held at Seoul Forest this time was no different; when I visited, I felt it was incredibly well-decorated.
No matter which way I went in Seoul Forest, I could admire and take photos of unique gardens decorated by various companies and individuals with diverse themes. In the center, giant Haetae and his friends dolls were positioned, and I saw families with children lining up to take pictures.
Additionally, various companies were present, hosting a variety of events. Since the local elections are coming up this June, the Seoul Metropolitan Election Commission was there to encourage voter turnout, so I was able to participate. It was a roulette event, and I won a basil growing kit. I also participated in an event hosted by KB Kookmin Bank, where I received a tomato growing kit. The events were simple, like subscribing to a YouTube channel or following someone on Instagram, so I think you can participate without any pressure. If you participate in the event hosted by Kakao Friends, you can receive a sun cap.
Tips for Visiting Seoul Forest
- I visited right after it opened on May 1st, and there were so, so many people. So, even if I got thirsty or hungry in the middle of the walk, it was awkward to buy something to eat. If you plan to visit Seoul Forest, it is recommended to stop by a nearby convenience store before entering to buy water, coffee, or snacks to take with you. Please make sure to throw away any trash you have left behind in the trash can!
- While there are chairs and tables to sit and rest at Seoul Forest, if you want to enjoy a picnic on the grass, I recommend bringing a light mat. Since there is a wide expanse of grass where you can spread out a mat and sit, it would be nice to find a spot you like and enjoy the leisurely sunshine.
Pokémon Mega Festa 2026
At this year’s Seoul International Garden Show, you could also participate in a Pokemon event. There was an event where you could receive Pikachu and Eevee sun caps and a limited edition Magikarp card by collecting stamps at six locations around Seongsu Station and Seoul Forest. My friend and I arrived at Seongsu Station around 11:30 AM to get these items, but a massive crowd had already gathered.
After finally managing to get my stamp and receive the Eevee sun cap, I went to Seoul Forest to pick up my Magikarp card, only to be told that the event had been canceled for safety reasons due to the excessive crowds. I was disappointed, but since there were many children and it was for safety reasons, I decided to understand. So, I briefly visited the Pokémon Secret Forest Garden mentioned earlier.
Additional Information
I heard that the system has now changed so that you must make a reservation at the entrance, similar to Catch Table, and then enter in order. Please keep this in mind if you plan to visit. You can find detailed information on the official Pokémon social media accounts.
Evening and Hunger
Perhaps because I had been walking around all day since morning, I was feeling quite hungry. Here are two places I recommend for times like this.
Nanpo (난포): This place is located in the alley right next to Seoul Forest. It is a fusion restaurant that adds a modern touch to traditional Korean home cooking. This restaurant's signature dish, Gangdoenjang Ssambap, is not only healthy but also perfect for enjoying bite by bite. It tastes great and looks beautiful, making it the perfect spot to post on social media. If you are visiting Seoul, I highly recommend you visit!
Daelim Changgo (대림창고): This place is already incredibly famous near Seongsu Station. It gets incredibly crowded. But don't worry! Since the space is large, seats tend to become available quickly. It is a cafe created by renovating a massive brick warehouse, offering a taste of Seongsu-dong's unique trendiness and delicious coffee.
Seongsu-dong is famous for its “hip” vibe, much like the trendy alleys of Yeonnam-dong. If you enjoy the atmosphere here, you’ll also love the Best places to eat in Yeonnam-dong (Personally paid for by travelers), known for its amazing pasta and boutique bakeries.
After visiting the Seoul International Garden Show 2026 and the Pokémon Mega Festa 2026, my main takeaway is that there are just too many people. If you are planning to visit, I recommend going on a weekday. Also, since the event runs until October, it might be nice to visit at your leisure. I wasn’t able to take proper photos during my recent visit, but I plan to return during a less busy time. See you in the next post!
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