If you're a Pokémon fan, 2026 is a year you simply can’t miss. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, Seoul is hosting a citywide, large-scale experiential festival unlike anything seen before. As part of Pokémon Mega Festa 2026, visitors can immerse themselves in nature at the Pokémon Secret Forest and join an interactive running event at Pokémon Run—transforming the city into one massive Pokémon-themed playground.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the Pokémon Secret Forest (Pokémon Garden), along with a curated travel route that combines Seoul Forest and the trendy nearby district of Seongsu-dong—perfect for international travelers looking for a full-day experience.
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| (source:https://pokemonkorea.co.kr/MegaFesta2026) |
What is Pokémon Mega Festa 2026?
Pokémon Mega Festa 2026 is a month-long celebration taking place across Seoul in May 2026. Rather than being confined to a single venue, it unfolds as a multi-location festival series, each offering unique themes and experiences.
What makes this event especially significant is its integration with major city festivals such as the Seoul Spring Festival and the Seoul International Garden Show. With participation from leading Korean companies like SK Telecom and Samsung Galaxy, visitors can expect cutting-edge interactive experiences powered by advanced technology.
Main Events at a Glance:
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Pokémon Secret Forest (Pokémon Garden)
📍 Seoul Forest | 🗓 May 1 – June 21 -
Pokémon Run 2026
📍 Ttukseom Hangang Park | 🗓 May 5 -
Pokémon Sports Day
📍 COEX, Samseong-dong | 🗓 May 24–25 -
Ditto Playground
📍 Seongsu-dong | 🗓 Throughout May
Pokémon Secret Forest (Pokémon Garden): A Magical Nature Experience
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| (source:https://pokemonkorea.co.kr/MegaFesta2026) |
Set within the lush greenery of Seoul Forest, the Pokémon Secret Forest is a large-scale immersive exhibition running from May 1 to June 21, 2026. Spanning approximately 850 pyeong (around 2,800 square meters), this themed garden is part of the 2026 Seoul International Garden Show.
What to Expect
Imagine wandering through a forest where Pokémon come to life. This pop-up garden blends real plants with life-sized Pokémon sculptures, including fan favorites like Pikachu and Eevee.
Highlights include:
- 📱 Mobile Stamp Rally: Explore the forest while collecting digital stamps by finding hidden Pokémon.
- 📸 Photo Zones: Massive Pokémon installations make for perfect Instagram shots.
- 🛍 Limited-Edition Store: Exclusive Pokémon merchandise available only at the event.
- 🌙 Night Illuminations: After sunset, the garden transforms with magical lighting effects.
This is not just an exhibition—it’s an interactive adventure that invites visitors to step into the Pokémon universe.
Visitor Information
- Event Name: Pokémon Garden (Character Pop-up Garden at Seoul International Garden Show 2026)
- Location: Seoul Forest, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Dates: May 1 – June 21, 2026
- Size: Approx. 850 pyeong
Getting There
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Subway:
- Bundang Line → Seoul Forest Station
- Line 2 → Ttukseom Station
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early May is expected to be the busiest. For a quieter experience, visit on weekday mornings or in June.
- Photo Strategy: Head to the giant Pikachu sculpture first to avoid long queues.
- Must-See Area: The “Secret Forest” zone features stunning topiary-style installations—perfect for capturing memorable shots.
Explore More: Seongsu-dong & Seoul Forest One-Day Itinerary
Your trip doesn’t end at Pokémon. Right next to Seoul Forest lies Seongsu-dong, often called the “Brooklyn of Seoul.” This former industrial area has transformed into a hub of trendy cafés, pop-up stores, and creative spaces.
Suggested Travel Route
Morning – Seoul Forest & Pokémon Garden
- Start your day early exploring Pokémon Secret Forest
- Enjoy a relaxing walk or rent a bike in Seoul Forest
Lunch – Seongsu Café Street
- Head into Seongsu-dong for brunch or coffee
- Popular spots include artisanal bakeries and warehouse-style cafés
Afternoon – Shopping & Pop-ups
- Visit concept stores, local designer shops, and Pokémon-themed pop-ups like Ditto Playground (if available)
Evening – Riverside Walk
- End your day at nearby Ttukseom Hangang Park for sunset views over the Han River
Final Thoughts
The Pokémon Secret Forest is more than just a themed exhibition—it’s a multi-sensory spring festival where nature and nostalgia collide. From interactive exploration to exclusive merchandise and enchanting night displays, it offers something for fans of all ages.
Combined with the vibrant energy of Seongsu-dong, this experience becomes a perfect Seoul itinerary—blending nature, culture, and pop entertainment into one unforgettable day.
If you're planning a trip to Korea this spring, make sure this is at the top of your list. This is where Pokémon dreams meet the real world.
