Hwadam Forest | Attraction Guide | K-Travel Mate

Hwadam Forest is an ecological arboretum located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do, 40 minutes from Seoul. Established by LG Sangnok Foundation to restore the ecosystem of Korean forests, it occupies 165,265㎡ (about 50,000 pyeong) with over 4,300 species of native and introduced plants organized into 16 themed gardens. The name Hwadam [和談] means "sharing friendly conversations," reflecting the goal of the forest as an ecological space where humans and nature can communicate. The site preserves Korean forest vegetation as much as possible and is designed as an eco-friendly space for anyone who loves nature to visit comfortably. Thanks to the preservation of the natural terrain and vegetation, visitors can see various trees naturally settled along the valley and ridge of Nogobong. For those with mobility issues, such as the disabled, elderly, and children, the entire 5 km forest trail is gently sloped, allowing comfortable enjoyment of nature with strollers or wheelchairs, making it popular for families. Major themed gardens include the country’s largest Moss Garden, the Birch Forest/Wishing Stone Tower featuring about 1,000 white birch trees, and the Bonsai Garden exhibiting 250 exquisite bonsai. Visitors can also encounter beautiful flowers and trees found in Korean forests, including around 480 maple varieties, the largest number in Korea. As part of species restoration efforts, Hwadam Forest collaborates with the Korea National Park Service to research and create habitats for endangered native species such as fireflies and mandarin ducks. Due to these ecological restoration activities, visitors can often easily see familiar wildlife like salamanders, hedgehogs, and squirrels throughout the forest. There is also a freshwater fish ecology center and an insect experience center. To ensure a pleasant and relaxed visit, Hwadam Forest operates a 100% online advance reservation system based on timed entry limits. Additionally, a monorail ride is available via online reservation to conveniently support visitors with limited mobility or children.