Deep in the heart of Seoul, one of the world's most high-tech and rule-driven cities, lies a forgotten relic: Yongma Land, an abandoned theme park now home to a colony of feral cats. The park, which opened in the early 1980s, was once a bustling family attraction in the Jungnang District. However, competition from the nearby Lotte World and the late 1990s IMF crisis led to its closure. The power was cut, the gates were shut, and the cats moved in.
But the story didn't end there. The park's owners saw an opportunity in its decay and reopened the gates, charging visitors 5,000 Korean won (£2.50) to explore the crumbling rides. A recent visitor described the surreal experience of being greeted by a blind cat and a smoking man with keys. The park's rides, including a rusting carousel and a dilapidated octopus ride, are slowly disintegrating, with peeling paint and stained surfaces.
What sets Yongma Land apart is its complete disregard for health and safety rules, a stark contrast to Seoul's typically strict regulations. Visitors are allowed to climb on rides without restriction, and the park's shabby charm has made it a popular location for K-pop music videos, including those by BTS and Blackpink, as well as TV shows like The Sound of Magic and Cafe Minamdang. It is also a favoured spot for wedding photography.
The existence of such a lawless, abandoned park in one of the most densely populated and high-tech cities on Earth is curious. Seoul, with a population of 10 million, is known for its neon-lit streets and natural beauty, yet remains affordable for British tourists. However, South Korea faces challenges from the global energy crisis, with oil reserves running low and restrictions on driving and appliance use. As the visitor noted, like Yongma Land, South Korea may face a future where the lights are switched off.
