Seoul's Dog-Friendly Parks Double as Social Fitness Hubs

Seoul has 25 dog-friendly parks where residents can exercise and socialize with their pets, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government's latest data.

These parks are especially important now as Seoul's active wellness culture continues to grow, with more residents seeking outdoor spaces to stay fit and healthy. The city's urban landscape, with its dense population and limited green spaces, makes it essential to have accessible areas where people can exercise and spend time with their pets. This trend is not unique to Seoul, as cities like New York and Tokyo also recognize the value of dog-friendly parks in promoting community and wellness.

In Seoul, dog owners can visit places like the Han River Park in Yeouido, which offers a 10.9-kilometer bike path and plenty of grassy areas for picnics and playtime with pets. Another popular spot is the Seoul Forest in Seongdong-gu, which has a designated dog-walking area and a variety of fitness equipment for visitors to use. The city's district offices, such as the Gangnam-gu Office, also offer dog-training programs and pet-related events, further solidifying the connection between local parks and the community.

Measuring the Impact

A survey conducted by the Korea National Park Corporation found that 71.4% of respondents visited parks with their dogs at least once a week, with 45.6% of those visitors engaging in physical activity like walking or jogging. The same survey reported that the average visitor spends around 2 hours and 30 minutes in the park, with 63.2% of respondents stating that they visit the park to relieve stress and improve their mental health. As of 2025, the city has invested 12.6 billion KRW in developing and maintaining its dog-friendly parks, demonstrating the government's commitment to this initiative.

For residents looking to take advantage of these dog-friendly parks, it's essential to follow the rules and regulations in place. The Seoul Metropolitan Government requires dog owners to keep their pets on a leash and clean up after them, with fines ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 KRW for non-compliance. By being mindful of these rules and respecting other park visitors, residents can enjoy the many benefits that Seoul's dog-friendly parks have to offer, from improved physical health to increased social connections and a stronger sense of community.