Maengdong Healing Forest in Eumseong, Chungcheongbuk-do, Newly Opens with Twice the Size of Yeouido Park

A new relaxation space, boasting a scale approximately twice that of Yeouido Park and larger than Seoul Forest, has opened in Eumseong County, Chungcheongbuk-do. Officially opened on April 1, 2026, 'Maengdong Healing Forest' is a large-scale forest recreation space established across approximately 60 hectares (equivalent to 84 soccer fields) in the area around Maengdong Reservoir and Hambaksan Mountain. Having begun construction in 2020, this site involved a 6-year preparation period and a budget of 5 billion won, offering various healing spaces and programs to rest both body and mind beyond simple walking trails.

A 1.3km Forest Path Entrance Accessible by Public Transportation

According to a video from the YouTube channel 'Korea Trekking', a key feature of Maengdong Healing Forest is its easy accessibility via public transportation. Using bus number 120 from the Chungbuk Innovation City Public Bus Terminal and getting off at the Tongdong Bus Stop, visitors can experience the atmosphere of the forest by walking along a 1.3km rural road from the stop to the forest entrance. The presenter in the video explains that the walk from the bus stop to the forest entrance is also part of the journey, suggesting a route where one eats a hearty meal of kal-mandu (knife-cut dumplings) and dotori-gimjeon (acorn pancakes) at a restaurant near the bus stop before moving on.

Upon arriving at the forest entrance, well-maintained walking trails appear, fitting for a site that opened in 2026. The slopes are gentle, reducing pressure on knees, and the paths constructed through the middle of the forest are well-paved, providing an environment where people of all ages can walk comfortably. At the forest entrance, parking facilities for the Maengdong Healing Forest Center are also provided for those using private vehicles. It takes about 25 minutes on foot from the bus stop to the center.

'Water-Welcoming Trail' and Observatories Blending Reservoir and Forest

Maengdong Healing Forest is not just a course for climbing mountains, but is structured to allow visitors to walk while enjoying the scenery where the forest and reservoir harmonize. One of the main courses, 'Water-Welcoming Trail', is a path that moves toward the reservoir as its name suggests; as one walks along the flat path, the scenery of Maengdong Reservoir gradually draws closer. In the video, this path is described as the 'Water-Welcoming Trail' (Mulbit Meditation Trail), introduced as a section good for walking slowly while focusing on the sounds of nature.

Two observatories are located midway through the course. At the first one, 'Bium Maru Observatory', visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the reservoir and the lush forest. At the second observatory following it, a space is provided where one can sit and rest while feeling the abundance of nature. The presenter emphasizes that resting appropriately is as important an element of trekking as walking the forest path, showing themselves enjoying the view using a folding chair.

Healing Programs for Seniors and Visiting Tips

This place is designed for the purpose of recovering both body and mind beyond being a simple walking trail. While the forest paths themselves can be walked freely without a reservation, professional forest healing programs require prior booking. The programs consist of meditation, stretching, five-senses walking, and thermal therapy, and are operated by dividing them by target audience. In particular, programs for senior travelers are well-equipped, making it suitable for elderly visitors.

There are also points to note when visiting. The presenter in the video walked the total 3.5km section in about 2 hours. Since the slope or stairs of the forest path may vary depending on the section, senior visitors in particular should select a course according to their physical condition and walking ability on the day. Additionally, as bus intervals may be long, it is efficient to check the return route in advance or use a call taxi if necessary. Since the operation hours of forest facilities and programs may change depending on the season and site conditions, it is recommended to check the latest information before visiting. In the future, a national ecological trail and a reservoir perimeter trail are planned to be additionally developed in the surrounding area.