Maehyang-ri Peace Ecological Park

A special walk with your child where you can feel peace and nature at Maehyang-ri Peace Ecological Park

What is Maehyang-ri Peace Ecological Park?

Located in Ujeong-eup, Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, Maehyang-ri Peace Ecological Park is a special park that was reborn around the themes of nature, peace, and ecology after being used for many years as a United States military firing range. Preserved to remember the painful history experienced by local residents over 54 years, this place was renovated and reopened in September 2021 as a space of peace and healing. Today, it is a popular family outing destination where you can enjoy beautiful nature and a variety of experiences at the same time.

Main sights and things to enjoy

1. Wide lawn plaza and walking trails

   • Your kids can run freely and enjoy nature on the open grassy field, the metasequoia path, and the plum blossom grove.
   • Since it is close to the coast, you can also easily spot birds resting together on the mudflats as you walk along the ecological trail.

2. Artist Garden and Korean Peninsula Garden

   • A series of gardens created by artists under different themes lets you enjoy a walk while viewing various plants and unique sculptures.
   • In the Korean Peninsula Garden, you will find the Statue of Peace, offering a chance to reflect on the meaning of peace with your child.

3. Peace Memorial Hall and Peace History Hall

   • At the Peace Memorial Hall inside the park, you can enjoy an educational experience where you learn about the history of Maehyang-ri and the value of peace.
   • At the nearby Peace History Hall, you can see exhibits about the actual firing range and the stories of residents who lived there.

4. Wetland Ecological Garden and Nongseom

   • At the Wetland Ecological Garden, where the natural wetland ecosystem is alive, you can observe various plants and animals up close.
   • In the area where the park meets the sea, you can also experience the marine ecological environment while looking out toward Nongseom.

5. Craft Culture Center

   • Traditional craft experiences and wheat straw craft classes are also offered, so both children and parents can enjoy the fun of creating together.

Tips for your visit

• Parking: The dedicated parking lot is spacious and available free of charge, making visits easy and convenient.
• Surroundings: Since it is a little away from the city center, you can fully enjoy nature in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
• Nearby places: Be sure to also visit the Maehyang-ri Peace Memorial Hall right in front of the park. A youth baseball field, Hwaseong Dream Park, and the Maehyang-ri Peace History Hall are also nearby, making it easy to plan a visit with multiple stops.

Fees and programs

• Admission: Free

Why it is a great place to visit with your child

• Although it holds a painful history, it is now a place where children can experience the value of nature, peace, and family.
• In the open outdoor space, your kids can run around freely while naturally learning about ecology and history.
• Walking trails, rest areas, and hands-on programs are well organized so everyone can enjoy the park comfortably.

Closing

Maehyang-ri Peace Ecological Park is a place that rose beyond a sad history to become a symbol of peace and recovery. It is a meaningful destination where both children and adults can create special memories, experience nature up close, reflect on the meaning of peace, and spend a memorable day together.

Amenities

• Available amenities: Parking
• Unavailable amenities: high chairs, nursing room, diaper changing station, stroller rental, reservations

Helpful tips for visitors

• The park has swing chairs, pavilions, benches, and other facilities, so you can take breaks whenever you need.
• It is a great idea to bring a kick scooter or bicycle for more fun.
• Throughout the walking trails, you will find art pieces and sculptures carrying messages of peace.
• The outdoor exhibition yard has a photo zone with a retired fighter jet.
• The Hwaseong Craft Culture Center is located inside the park and displays various works using wheat straw lacquer craft, and admission is free.