Attractions in Dongjak-gu (Seoul)

Korean Memorial Cemetery

This large cemetery is the resting place of the assassinated president Park Chung-hee, as well as 110,000 other Koreans. Originally only for soldiers who died in wars, since 1965 civilians who contributed to society have also been buried here. On the weekends especially, many people come and quietly stroll along the paths among the trees, grass and flowers and pay respect to the deceased. There is a small museum, including a short explanatory film, inside the cemetery grounds. If you come here be sure not to make any unnecessary noise and wear modest clothing.

Boramae Park

Located on the site of what was once the Air Force Academy, this park opened on May 5, 1986. It got its name Boramae (Korean for falcon) from the symbol of the Air Force Academy. This park offers green pastures, playgrounds, ponds, a swimming pool, tennis courts and two gymnasiums. There is even a small zoo where birds and deer are raised. If this is not enough, you can examine three types of aircraft, including fighter planes, on display as a remembrance that the Air Force Academy once stood here.

Sayuksinmyo Shrine

This special historic park honors six loyal subjects who lost their lives in a valiant struggle trying to help King Dan-jong, whose uncle forcefully grabbed power in 1455. Admire the architecture of their tombs, located in a various structures such as a hexagonal monument, steeple and Confucian school, built in their honor. This park is a pleasant place to relax and to experience a small part of Korea's history. Admission is free.