Seokchon Lake and Songridan-gil: a walk next to Lotte World Tower
Seokchon Lake (석촌호수) is a free lakeside park right next to Lotte World Tower in Jamsil, southeast Seoul, and Songridan-gil (송리단길) is the café and restaurant street just behind its eastern side. The easy plan: take Line 2 to Jamsil Station, walk a couple of minutes to the lake, do a slow loop on the flat, paved path (around 2.5 km, roughly 30–40 minutes without stops), then cross to Songridan-gil for coffee or dinner. It works in any season, and in spring it becomes one of Seoul's best cherry blossom walks.
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What is Seokchon Lake?
The lake is a remnant of an old branch of the Han River. When the Jamsil area was reclaimed and developed, part of the former river channel was kept as a lake, and today it is a well-kept park run by Songpa-gu. A road splits it into two halves:
- West Lake (서호): the side with Lotte World's outdoor area, Magic Island, so you see castle towers and rides across the water. Expect more people here.
- East Lake (동호): calmer, with benches, trees and the best views back toward Lotte World Tower. Songridan-gil starts just beyond this side.
Over the years the lake has hosted large temporary art installations and seasonal events, so check Songpa-gu's official channels before your visit to see what is on.
How to get there
- Jamsil Station (Line 2 and Line 8): the most common start. From the Line 2 exits on the Lotte side (exits 2 and 3 are often recommended), the lake is only a few hundred metres away, next to Lotte World Mall.
- Seokchon Station (Line 8 and Line 9) or Songpanaru Station (Line 9): better if you want to start in Songridan-gil and finish at the lake.
Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for walking directions; they are far more accurate in Korea than international map apps.
A simple walking route (about 2–3 hours with stops)
1. Lotte World Tower plaza
Start at the tower's base for photos looking up. If you want the view from the top, the Seoul Sky observation deck is in the same building; it is best around sunset on a clear day. Tickets can be bought in advance, for example through Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky tickets on KKday. Our guide Is Seoul Sky worth it, and when to go covers timing.
2. West Lake loop
Walk the path with Magic Island across the water. In the evening the rides and castle are lit up, which makes a pretty photo even if you are not going into the park.
3. East Lake loop
Cross to the eastern half for a quieter walk and the classic reflection shot of Lotte World Tower on the water, especially at dusk.
4. Songridan-gil
The name is a play on "Songpa" and Itaewon's Gyeongridan-gil. It is a grid of small streets with cafés, bakeries, wine bars and casual restaurants in converted low-rise buildings. Shops change often, so browse rather than hunting for one famous place; weekday afternoons are calmer than weekend evenings.
Best seasons
- Spring: cherry trees circle the lake, usually blooming in early April. Songpa-gu often holds a cherry blossom festival, and weekends get very crowded; go early morning or on a weekday.
- Summer: evening walks are pleasant after the heat breaks.
- Autumn: colourful leaves and cool air; ideal for the full loop.
- Winter: bare trees but clear views of the tower, and festive lights at Lotte World Mall. Dress warmly; the lake is windy.
Combine it with Lotte World
If you have a full day, the lake pairs naturally with Lotte World Adventure, the indoor-outdoor theme park next door. You can buy Lotte World tickets on KKday, then walk the lake in the evening. Not sure which park to choose? Read Lotte World vs Everland.
"I always end a busy shopping day in Jamsil with one slow lap of the east lake." — a POPORO CITY resident
Quick tips
- The lake path is free and open to walkers; check official notices for event closures.
- Toilets and convenience stores are easy to find at Lotte World Mall.
- Cycling and pets may have rules on the path; follow posted signs.
- For the tower reflection photo, stand on the east lake's western edge at blue hour.
- In cherry blossom season, avoid weekend afternoons if you dislike crowds.
FAQ
Is Seokchon Lake free?
Yes, walking around the lake costs nothing. Only attractions like Seoul Sky or Lotte World need tickets.
How long does it take to walk around Seokchon Lake?
About 30–40 minutes for both halves at an easy pace, longer with photo stops.
Is Seokchon Lake good at night?
Yes. The path is well used in the evening, and the lit-up tower and Magic Island make it one of Jamsil's nicest night walks.
Where is Songridan-gil exactly?
It is the neighbourhood east of the lake, roughly between the East Lake and Songpanaru and Seokchon stations on Line 9.
When do cherry blossoms bloom at Seokchon Lake?
Usually in early April, but it varies each year. Check Korean forecast sites or Songpa-gu announcements in March.