In the midst of an unusual scene at Yongma Land, I pushed against the merry-go-round while being observed by two smoking individuals, a mechanical goose, and a group of 30 stray cats. After a few efforts, the rusty carousel creaked to life, setting the dusty horses in motion at a leisurely pace.
Yongma Land, located in Seoul’s Jungnang District, was once a thriving family-owned theme park in the early 1980s. However, fierce competition from nearby high-tech venues like Lotte World and the financial challenges of the late 1990s led to its decline.
Subsequently, the park closed its doors, allowing a colony of feral cats to take up residence amidst the abandoned rides. Yet, the resourceful owners saw an opportunity to attract tourists by reopening Yongma Land for exploration at a modest fee of 5,000 Korean won (£2.50).
During my visit on a warm April morning, I encountered an intriguing sight as I entered the park through tall iron gates labeled ‘Welcome Magic Land’. The peculiar charm of Yongma Land became apparent as I explored the decaying amusement park, with rides slowly deteriorating and paint peeling off attractions like the rotting carousel and a weathered pirate ship.
In stark contrast to the strict regulations commonly observed in Seoul, Yongma Land exuded an air of neglect and eccentricity, drawing visitors to its shabby allure. Notably, the park has attracted attention from K-pop sensations like BTS and Blackpink, who filmed music videos on its premises, along with popular TV shows utilizing the rusty rides as unique backdrops.
Despite Seoul’s reputation for modernity and order, Yongma Land stands as a stark reminder of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into a peculiar world frozen in time. The juxtaposition of traditional charm and metropolitan splendor in Seoul, a densely populated city known for its technological advancements, adds to the city’s allure.
However, Seoul’s economic stability faces challenges in the wake of the global energy crisis, with dwindling oil reserves leading to stringent energy-saving measures. As South Korea grapples with uncertainty, Yongma Land symbolizes a nostalgic past that may fade into obscurity.
Visitors can purchase entry tickets at the park for a nominal fee of 5,000 won (£2.50), with additional charges possibly incurred for photography permissions, subject to the owners’ discretion.
For those interested in exploring Seoul and Yongma Land, tours are available through Inside Asia, while Virgin Atlantic offers daily flights from London Heathrow to Seoul, catering to travelers seeking to experience the unique blend of tradition and modernity in South Korea’s vibrant capital.
