Parks and green spaces have been incorporated into urban designs to help absorb rainwater and mitigate flooding while offering residents places to relax and recharge.
Culturally, Seoul’s residents have embraced the geography by integrating it into their lifestyles. Hiking has become a popular pastime, with trails accessible from nearly every corner of the city. The mountains have also influenced Seoul’s culinary traditions, with many seasonal dishes incorporating ingredients foraged from nearby forests. In neighborhoods like Sillim, where steep inclines are unavoidable, residents have developed a strong sense of community, often helping each other navigate the challenges of the terrain.
The integration of nature into daily life is not just practical but also cultural. Seoul exemplifies the deep-rooted Korean belief in balancing human activity with the environment. From preserving urban forests to incorporating natural elements into city planning, the residents have embraced a lifestyle that reflects harmony with their surroundings. This ability to adapt and thrive in a challenging geographical environment makes Seoul not just a city of resilience but also a living symbol of cultural respect for nature.
