Seoul Design
International Forum
서울디자인국제포럼

The second edition of Seoul’s Active Design Project, “Seongsu 1 Play Park,” is set to open on Monday, the 16th. This initiative repurposes aging spaces into active areas that promote both physical and mental well-being for citizens.

Seoul’s Active Design Project Overview

The project aims to transform underutilized and outdated urban spaces into activity-friendly areas that encourage natural physical movement for citizens, including individuals with limited mobility. Its goal is to enhance daily vitality, fun, and health. The first edition, “Yeoui Roll Park,” opened in April beneath Mapo Bridge in Yeouido Hangang Park. It features a multi-level, wheel-friendly space where people can ride wheelchairs, skates, and other wheeled devices. As part of its "Design Seoul 2.0 Project Plan" announced on June 20, 2023, the city is advancing active design policies to improve citizens’ quality of life through creative design initiatives.

Features of Seongsu 1 Play Park

Located at 479-4 Seongsu-dong 1-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seongsu 1 Play Park is a multi-functional area combining a playground, sports zone, and rest space. Its dynamic, non-linear surface with flat grounds, wave-shaped hills, and slopes fosters creative play and movement for visitors.

1. Safe and Accessible Walking Trail

The walking trail, expected to be popular among local residents, is designed with safety and convenience in mind. Slip-resistant SF concrete and colored rubber chips ensure safe footing. Four entrances feature secure handrails, gentle slopes, and low steps, making the park accessible to seniors, wheelchair users, and strollers.

2. Play Space (Playground)

The playground includes climbing walls, a running track, wave hills, and adventure beams, offering diverse challenges and fun activities. Visitors can explore various activities across its unique terrain.

3. Sports Space (Field)

The sports area serves as a multi-purpose space for community sports, games, and recreational programs.

4. Rest Space (Park)

The rest area provides shaded shelters and fitness equipment, offering a place for relaxation and exercise.

Community Engagement for Enhanced Usability

Given the park's expected frequent use by local residents, the city held a community briefing on August 5, 2024. Officials gathered feedback on noise control, safety, and equipment layout to maximize comfort, safety, and usability.

Choi Inkyu, Director-General of Design Policy Bureau, stated:

“We aim to transform aging urban spaces into attractive, healthy environments through the Active Design Project. By continuously expanding new urban spaces tailored to the characteristics of each community, we will revolutionize everyday life for our citizens.”

Feedback from Local Residents Who Experienced 'Seongsu 1 Play Park'

​# A Fun Space Even for Older Students

"The previous playground was a modular type, making it awkward for older students to hang out. But the newly built space seems like a fun place where I can play on my way home from school."

(Opinion from an upper-grade elementary school student)

# A Park That Encourages Walking Naturally

"We were walking down the street and saw a new, unique playground we hadn’t seen before. My child really wanted to check it out, so we came over. I think this is the first time we've seen a playground like this here."

"Once you enter the park, you naturally end up walking around the entire area. We even walked up the hill and back down."

"The benches are circular, making them look like a stage. I feel like dancing and playing energetically!"

(Opinions from senior residents)

# Sled-Ready Hills, Wider Stairs, and Open Entrances

"I’ve never seen a playground like this before. It looks so classy and beautiful. When I saw the hill being built during construction, I ordered a sled right away. It’s going to be so much fun when it snows!"

"The steps leading up are lower, which is great. The entrance feels so open now that it’s hard to believe the stairs were ever this wide."

"The path to the apartment has no more height differences, making it much easier to walk around."

(Opinions from parents with young children)