Seoul’s Horse-themed Spots: Sunrise Hikes, Markets and Hidden Alleys
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
As 2026, the Year of the Horse, approaches, Seoul highlights several horse-linked sites. Yongmasan (Dragon Horse Mountain) in eastern Seoul is a popular sunrise hiking spot with preserved nature, new skywalk and a winter sled park at the former quarry. Majang-dong, once a state horse-breeding ground (yangmajang), evolved into the country’s largest meat market cluster, reflecting Seoul’s urban history and lively food culture. Pimatgol, a narrow alley historically where commoners avoided horses and officials, became a famed food lane though much of it has been lost to redevelopment; its spirit survives in pockets around Jongno. The story connects horses’ symbolism—power, courage, healing and purity—to these places and suggests local walking and food itineraries for visitors. (yangmajang: a historical government horse-breeding ranch)
