Seoul is set to expand its footprint in the fast-growing sport of pickleball with the launch of a new dedicated facility at Gwangnaru Hangang Park, opening with a two-day community event on 28–29 March 2026.
The Gwangnaru Hangang Park is part of the Healthy City Seoul initiative of Mayor Oh Se-hoon. The area used to be an outdoor pickleball facility. However, the field was rarely used, so the city decided to repurpose it into a pickleball facility to cater to South Korea’s steadily growing pickleball community.
The venue features 14 courts along with supporting amenities, built to serve as an accessible recreational hub as interest in the sport continues to climb across the city. Rather than a quiet rollout, officials are opting for a full-scale opening weekend designed to bring players and curious newcomers onto the courts.
Organisers expect around 500 participants to take part in the festivities, which will include a family tournament alongside a mix of matches catering to beginners and international players. The programme is structured to be inclusive, blending competition with opportunities for learning and casual play.
Beyond matches, the weekend will also feature guided lessons and open play sessions, allowing visitors to experience the sport first-hand. For those unfamiliar with pickleball, an on-site “story zone” will walk attendees through its origins and rules, while a separate hands-on area will provide access to equipment for trial use.
A formal opening ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on March 29, setting the stage for a series of exhibition matches and the tournament finals later in the day.
The launch underscores Seoul’s growing commitment to developing pickleball at the grassroots level. By combining modern facilities with community-focused programming, the Gwangnaru site is positioned not just as a playing venue, but as a gateway for broader participation in the sport.
