Everland Zoo-topia
South Korea·Theme Park Zoo·20th century
Everland Zoo-topia, also known as Everland, is South Korea's largest theme park and a major tourist attraction located in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province. Originally opened as Yongin Farmland, it evolved into a comprehensive resort featuring a zoo, water park, and numerous attractions, becoming a significant entertainment destination since its establishment in 1976. It is operated by Samsung C&T Corporation, a subsidiary of the Samsung Group.
Key Facts
- ›Opened on April 18, 1976, as Yongin Farmland.
- ›Renamed to Everland in 1996.
- ›Features a zoo area called Zootopia with a variety of animals.
- ›Includes Caribbean Bay, South Korea's first water park.
- ›Has hosted over 270 million visitors in its history as of 2024.
- ›Is operated by Samsung C&T Corporation.
Zootopia, Caribbean Bay, T Express, Amazon Express, Mystery Mansion, Aesop's Village
Giant Pandas, Ligers, Bears, Lions, Tigers, Primates, Sea Lions, Penguins, Kosik the Elephant
About Everland Zoo-topia
Everland Zoo-topia, commonly known as Everland, is South Korea's premier theme park and a significant entertainment complex. Situated in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, it was established on April 18, 1976, initially under the name Yongin Farmland. The park was later rebranded as Everland in 1996 and is operated by Samsung C&T Corporation, a part of the Samsung Group. It has consistently ranked among the world's most visited amusement parks, drawing millions of visitors annually and accumulating over 270 million visitors in its history as of 2024.
History and Development
Construction on the site began in 1968, with the park officially opening in 1976 as Yongin Farmland, a nature-themed destination. At its inception, it spanned approximately 3,700 acres and featured around 200 species of animals, an orchard, and agricultural productivity. It was notable for being the first in East Asia to offer a safari experience with free-ranging lions. Over the years, Yongin Farmland expanded its attractions, introducing a variety of rides, themed exhibitions, and seasonal festivals, including a popular Rose Festival and Tulip Festival.
The park underwent a significant transformation, adopting the name Everland in 1996. This period also saw the opening of Caribbean Bay, South Korea's first water park, which quickly became a major draw. Everland continued to innovate with new rides and attractions, including the opening of T Express, South Korea's first wooden roller coaster, in 2008. In 2021, to commemorate its 45th anniversary, the park opened a Natural Farm Homage Garden, paying tribute to its origins.
Themed Areas and Attractions
Everland is organized into five distinct zones: Global Fair, Zootopia, European Adventure, Magic Land, and American Adventure.
Zootopia
Zootopia serves as the park's dedicated animal-themed area. It houses a diverse collection of animals, including birds, giant pandas, sea lions, penguins, bears, lions, tigers, and primates. Visitors can experience a safari bus ride, observing animals such as ligers and bears in expansive, contained habitats. The Amazon Express raft ride offers a water-splashing adventure. Zootopia is also home to notable giant panda family, including Aibao, Lebao, and their cubs Fubao, Ruibao, and Huibao, with Fubao being the first giant panda born in South Korea. An elephant named Kosik gained attention for its ability to imitate Korean words.
Other Themed Zones
European Adventure features architecture inspired by European styles and includes attractions like the wooden roller coaster T Express. Magic Land offers rides and themed areas such as Aesop's Village, drawing inspiration from Aesop's fables. American Adventure presents themes from American history, including a Western-themed ride and a 1950s rock 'n' roll area. Global Fair acts as an entry and exit point, providing services, shops, and restaurants.
Notable Features
Everland is recognized for its innovative attractions and seasonal events. T Express is a standout roller coaster, noted for being the first wooden coaster in South Korea and one of the longest in the world. The park also hosts popular seasonal festivals, such as the Tulip Festival in spring and Christmas Fantasy during winter. The Jigu Maul (Global Village), a boat ride showcasing global traditions and miniatures, was a significant attraction until its demolition in 2016.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Everland Zoo-topia first open?
Everland Zoo-topia first opened its gates to the public on April 18, 1976. At that time, it was known as Yongin Farmland.
What was the original name of Everland Zoo-topia?
The park was originally named Yongin Farmland, which translates to 'Yongin Natural Farm'. It adopted its current name, Everland, in 1996.
What kind of attractions are available at Everland Zoo-topia?
Everland Zoo-topia offers a wide range of attractions, including a zoo (Zootopia), a water park (Caribbean Bay), numerous rides such as roller coasters like T Express, and themed areas like European Adventure and American Adventure.
What are some notable animals at Everland Zoo-topia?
Zootopia houses a variety of animals including birds, giant pandas, sea lions, penguins, bears, lions, tigers, and primates. Giant pandas Aibao and Lebao, along with their offspring Fubao, Ruibao, and Huibao, are particularly notable residents.
What is the significance of the Zootopia section?
Zootopia is the animal-themed zone of Everland, featuring a zoo with diverse species and a safari bus ride where visitors can observe animals like ligers and bears in a contained habitat. It also includes attractions like the Amazon Express raft ride.
What is Caribbean Bay?
Caribbean Bay is a large water park that is part of the Everland Resort. It was the first water park of its kind to open in South Korea, launching in July 1996.
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