Gumi in North Gyeongsang Province, embracing the scenic currents of the Nakdong River, is emerging as a new hub for park golf. Dongrak Park Golf Course, located on the riverside plains of the Nakdong River, has been selected as the venue for the 3rd Presidential Cup National Park Golf Tournament to be held in June. Certified as Korea's first official course by the Korea Park Golf Association, the venue has established itself as Gumi's signature park golf destination with its symbolic status, a solid 36-hole course, and the refreshing riverside environment.
Wide Fairways Tempt Long Drives...Conquer with a 'Three-Shot Strategy'
Dongrak Park Golf Course was built in 2017 at 947-31 Jinpyeong-dong, Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province. The Korea Park Golf Association certified it as an official park golf course in 2019. Spanning approximately 59,000 square meters, the course consists of four sections from A to D (nine holes each), for a total of 36 holes. The total distance by course is 623 meters for Course A, 704 meters for Course B, 712 meters for Course C, and 661 meters for Course D. The overall length reaches 2,700 meters.
The fairways are generally wide, inviting powerful long drives, but as an official course, out-of-bounds lines along the course boundaries are strictly enforced. Courses B and C in particular feature long straight distances, making it easy to overswing. On these courses, losing direction can easily send the ball into deep grass or out of bounds, requiring caution. Course C, in addition to its long length, features ditches and mounds as key variables. Although it appears flat, ditches scattered across the fairway can disrupt or redirect the ball's flow, so shots that fail to account for the terrain can easily lead to score losses.
The greens are relatively flat, but subtle undulations around the hole cup serve as a variable. Rather than aiming directly for the cup, the three-shot strategy—targeting the center of the green to land safely, then finishing with a precise putt—is the shortcut to lowering scores.
Key Guidelines to Check Before Visiting
The course reopens on May 1 after completing turf reinforcement and facility maintenance. Operating hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Since entry procedures differ by visitor type, checking in advance is essential.
Gumi residents can visit the course without advance reservation. They must bring identification to verify their residence upon entry. After the verification process, they can immediately enjoy a round.
Non-residents, on the other hand, must make an online advance reservation through the "Gumi City Integrated Reservation System." Reservations can be made from Monday of the week before use until the day before use, and visitors should note that the reservation system does not operate on weekends and holidays. To provide opportunities to more users, usage is limited to once a day for Gumi residents and once a week for non-residents.
Enjoying Gumi's Charm After the Round
After finishing a round, visitors can cap off the day by exploring nearby attractions that extend the lingering mood of the Nakdong River. Dongrak Park, adjacent to the course, is a waterfront park featuring a 9.2-kilometer walking trail and bicycle path, perfect for light stretching and leisure. The park offers various attractions, including the world's first electronic bell, a memorial monument for patriotic soldiers, and a dog playground.
For visitors with children, the Gumi Science Center, accessible on foot, is worth a visit. Located within Dongrak Park, this space offers hands-on learning in basic science, making it suitable as a light educational and experiential course after a round.
Those planning a more leisurely itinerary can head to Geumosan Provincial Park, about a 20-minute drive away. As Korea's first provincial park, it boasts scenic natural landscapes including Daehye Falls, Doseon Cave, and the Geumoji lawn plaza. The nearby "Geumridan-gil" cafe street offers both relaxation and culinary enjoyment.
For those who want to experience Gumi's history and culture, a recommended course connects the Gumi Neo-Confucianism History Museum and the Yaeun History Experience Center. These spaces, harmonized with tranquil hanok buildings, illuminate the region's figures and traditions, leaving a calm impression along with a stroll.
◈Dongrak Park Golf Course at a Glance
▣Location = 947-31 Jinpyeong-dong, Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province
▣Size = 36 holes (approximately 59,000 square meters / 17,848 pyeong)
▣Hours = 8:50 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
▣Fee = Free
▣Equipment Rental = Not available
▣Reservation = Residents: walk-in / Non-residents: online advance reservation required (no reservations on weekends and holidays)
▣Management = Gumi City Hall Sports Promotion Division
