Yeonji Water Playground in Jongno District, Seoul / Courtesy of Jongno District Office
For families seeking respite from the sweltering summer heat without leaving the capital, a network of free urban splash parks is opening across the historic heart of the city.
Jongno District announced plans Thursday to operate four park-based water play areas throughout the summer season, pairing the refreshing splash zones with specialized educational programs for children.
The district's flagship facility, the Yeonji Water Playground, opened its gates earlier this month and will operate through Aug. 30. It features an array of interactive installations, including two water slides, giant and miniature tipping buckets, a water tunnel and ground-level fountains. Three additional temporary splash pads — located at Sungin Park, Sanmaru Playground and Sangsang Guldduk Playground — will welcome visitors from July 11 through Aug. 16.
The facilities are specifically tailored for elementary school students and younger children, with adult supervision strictly mandated for toddlers aged 7 and under. To ensure maximum accessibility, the parks will transition from weekend-only operations in early summer to daily openings by mid-July.
