Warmth of Autumn in Gangseo-gu, Encountering Donguibogam and Healthy Relaxation at the Heojun Festival

Under the Autumn Sunlight, Encountering the Breath of the Medical Sage, Heojun

On a weekend in October, as the cool autumn breeze brushed against my cheeks, I walked along the trails of the Magok Seoul Botanic Park (Seoul Sikmulwon) and felt a vibrant energy that was a bit different from usual. The 'Heojun Festival', which honors the nation's representative medical sage, Heojun, was taking place. I heard that it used to be a small event held near Heogabawi (Heo's Rock), but since it's now held at the spacious Seoul Botanic Park, there couldn't be a better place to visit for a stroll.

As I entered the venue, the subtle scent of medicinal herbs tickled my nose. It felt less like a festival venue and more like a space of healing that calms the mind. 'Donguibogam', which Heojun completed after 14 years of devotion, is more than just an old medical book; it is a record imbued with deep love for the people. Thinking about that profound meaning while walking through the well-maintained trails of the botanical garden, the 15 years of hard work put into a single book seemed to approach me a little differently.

A Healing Time Felt with All Five Senses

the atmosphere of the festival was truly warm. The sound of children's laughter echoing from everywhere, combined with the trees in the botanical garden shimmering under the autumn sunlight, looked like a picture. It wasn't just for viewing; various experiential programs were prepared, so families who visited were all beaming with smiles.

Exhibition spaces that reflect on the value of Donguibogam, which is registered as a UNESCO Memory of the World, provided a sense of calm inspiration. What I liked most was that, thanks to the festival concept reinterpreted with a modern sensibility, anyone of any age could stay comfortably. As I sat on a bench and took a rest while watching the plants swaying in the wind, both my body and mind felt clearer. Sitting in this peaceful space, I think I understood a little better why Heojun emphasized the importance of preventive medicine so strongly through 'Donguibogam'.

Tips for an Autumn Outing in Gangseo-gu

If you want to enjoy the Heojun Festival properly, remember the second week of October every year. At this time, the autumn atmosphere at the Seoul Botanic Park reaches its peak, so just walking around is healing. Located at 161 Magokdong-ro, Gangseo-gu, the Seoul Botanic Park is very convenient to visit by public transport. I recommend the path walking slowly from Magoknaru Station or Yangcheon Hyanggyo Station, as it is truly beautiful.

If you visit between 2 PM and 4 PM, when the sun is tilting at just the right angle, you can take beautiful pictures with the festival's warm lighting overlapping with the natural light. After seeing the festival, I recommend exploring the botanical garden's greenhouse or finishing the day by sitting in a nearby cafe with a warm cup of tea. If you want to welcome a healthy autumn by borrowing the wisdom of Oriental medicine, be sure to stop by. It will surely remain a pleasant memory for you as well.