The first time I heard the sound, I wasn’t sure what it was. My husband and I were strolling through the lush greenery of Seoul Forest when we heard a familiar “pop, pop, pop.” Curious, we followed the noise past the flower gardens and basketball courts—and there it was: a group of Koreans playing pickleball.
We had packed our paddles for our six‑week trip to Korea on the off‑chance we’d find a place to play. Our friends told us about courts in Gangdong, but that was too long of a trek from our hotel in Gangnam. Imagine our delight when we discovered courts just fifteen minutes from our hotel, right in the heart of Seoul.
The next day, we returned with our paddles. After a few tentative solo rallies, we shyly asked a nearby couple if they’d like to play together. Between games, we learned that we’d stumbled upon a small but thriving pickleball community—die‑hard enthusiasts who gathered almost daily.
Three converted jokgu courts at Seoul Forest where pickleball players gather every day to play their favorite sport.
At the center of it all was a former tennis instructor who sets up the equipment each morning and unofficially coaches the group. We met him the following day, and he welcomed us warmly. He offers lessons—very affordable compared to stateside rates—and though there’s no pressure to sign up, we were happy to give it a try. His instruction was top‑notch.
A Sport on the Rise in Korea
My husband and I discovered pickleball during the pandemic and have become annoyingly enthusiastic evangelists among our friends. For years we played weekend matches with our equally obsessed friends, loving the perfect balance of social fun and friendly competition.
The number one reason people get addicted to pickleball is that it’s just plain fun. If you’ve ever played ping pong or tennis, you’ll get it right away. And all those shots you just couldn’t master in tennis will be much easier with pickleball.
While pickleball has exploded in the U.S., it’s still relatively new here—making our find all the more special. We were thrilled to see that the sport’s casual, inclusive spirit isn’t lost in translation. In this group, no one cares about your age, background, or profession: if you can rally, you’re welcome. Just bring your gear and a good attitude, and join the fun.
The Seoul Forest Pickleball Community
Players gather almost every morning and late afternoon. After morning sessions, people often head to one of the delicious nearby restaurants in bustling Seongsu-dong for lunch and lighthearted conversation. A Kakao Talk group chat—now over a hundred members strong—keeps everyone posted on weather cancellations and special events. There are a few foreigners who drop in on occasion, and since pickleball is a universal language, there isn’t much of an issue with language.
Finding the Courts
While more pickleball courts are popping up across Seoul, nothing beats the beauty—and free access—of Seoul Forest. The courts are converted jokgu (Korean foot volleyball) courts, so players pitch in to adjust nets and sweep away leaves. If you join in, be ready to help keep the courts tidy.
Bird’s-eye view of Seoul Forest. The arrow indicates the location of the pickleball courts.
How to Find Them:
-
Location: Head to Seoul Forest in Seongsu-dong, and look for the jokgu/pickleball courts next to the Galleria Foret building, near the public restrooms
-
Best Times: Mornings and late afternoons (weather permitting)
-
Stay Connected: Ask any player—or the coach—to add you to the Kakao group chat for schedule updates
So grab your paddle and come see why this hidden gem in Seoul Forest is the perfect place to smash, dink, and make new friends.
Other Places to Play Pickleball in and Around Seoul:
A comprehensive list of where to play pickleball in Seoul. Indicated are location, hours, cost, and a brief description.
