Hello everyone!
Today, I want to introduce you to one of Seoul’s hidden gems and the river that flows through the heart of the city — the Han River. If you’re planning a trip to Korea, the Han River should definitely be on your list. Why? Because it’s a place where you can experience nature, history, culture, and local life all in one.
📍 What is the Han River?
The Han River is one of Korea’s most iconic rivers, running right through Seoul, the capital city. It stretches over 500 kilometers and has played a significant role in Korean history. Today, it's a beloved space for locals to relax, play, and reconnect with nature — a vital part of everyday life in the city.
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🚲 How Locals Enjoy the Han River
The Han River is more than just water — it’s surrounded by Han River Parks, which stretch along both sides of the river throughout Seoul. There’s something for everyone: walking, biking, fishing, picnicking, even yachting!
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Biking: There are well-maintained bike paths all along the river. You can easily rent a bike and enjoy the feeling of freedom as you ride with the breeze and the view of the city skyline.
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Picnicking: Thanks to Korea’s amazing delivery culture, you can order fried chicken and beer right to your picnic spot. Just bring a mat, sit back, and enjoy!
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Night Views: The Han River is especially romantic at night. The bridges light up, and you can even take a river cruise to see Seoul’s city lights from the water.
🍜 What to Eat by the River
When Koreans visit the Han River, they almost always eat ramyeon (instant noodles). There are special ramyeon machines in convenience stores by the river — just pop in a cup noodle, press a button, and wait for the perfect hot bowl. Eating noodles while feeling the river breeze? Pure happiness.
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Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain: The longest bridge fountain in the world, with LED lights and dancing water at night.
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Ttukseom Resort: A lively park p
erfect for families, couples, or friends — even has spots for camping vibes.
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Jamsugyo Bridge & Some Sevit (Floating Islands): Great for photography lovers, these unique structures create stunning views both day and night.
🎉 Something for Every Season
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Spring: Cherry blossoms line the riverbanks in soft pinks.
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Summer: “Hangang Mongddang” Fes
tival features water sports, night markets, and outdoor concerts.
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Fall: Enjoy peaceful walks among red and golden leaves.
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Winter: Some areas offer ice fishing and sledding!
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🧭 How to Get to the Han River in Seoul
Visiting the Han River is easy — there are multiple parks along the river and many of them are just a short subway ride away. Here's a simple guide to get you there like a local.
📌 1. Choose a Han River Park
There are 11 major Han River Parks, but here are the most popular and accessible ones for visitors:
🟢 Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도 한강공원)
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Best for: Cherry blossoms (spring), biking, night views, festivals.
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How to get there:
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Subway Line 5 or Line 9 → Get off at Yeouinaru Station (여의나루역), Exit 2 or 3.
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Walk 5–10 minutes to reach the park.
Best for: Cherry blossoms (spring), biking, night views, festivals.
How to get there:
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Subway Line 5 or Line 9 → Get off at Yeouinaru Station (여의나루역), Exit 2 or 3.
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Walk 5–10 minutes to reach the park.
🔵 Banpo Hangang Park (반포 한강공원)
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Best for: Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, night river cruises, picnics.
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How to get there:
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Subway Line 9 → Get off at Express Bus Terminal Station (고속터미널역), Exit 8-1.
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Walk about 15–20 minutes or take a short taxi ride.
Best for: Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, night river cruises, picnics.
How to get there:
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Subway Line 9 → Get off at Express Bus Terminal Station (고속터미널역), Exit 8-1.
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Walk about 15–20 minutes or take a short taxi ride.
🟡 Ttukseom Hangang Park (뚝섬 한강공원)
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Best for: Water activities, music festivals, camping vibes.
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How to get there:
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Subway Line 7 → Get off at Ttukseom Resort Station (뚝섬유원지역), Exit 2 or 3.
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You’ll see the park as soon as you exit!
Best for: Water activities, music festivals, camping vibes.
How to get there:
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Subway Line 7 → Get off at Ttukseom Resort Station (뚝섬유원지역), Exit 2 or 3.
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You’ll see the park as soon as you exit!
🚇 2. Use Subway or KakaoMap
Seoul’s subway is fast, cheap, and foreigner-friendly. Use the KakaoMap or Naver Map app (both support English) to:
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Search “Hangang Park” or the name of the park (like “Yeouido Hangang Park”).
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Get real-time directions and subway transfers.
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Track your location as you walk.
💡Tip: If you're not sure which park to go to, start with Yeouido — it's the most popular and easiest for first-timers.
🧺 3. What to Bring or Rent
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Picnic mat: Buy at Daiso or convenience stores near the park.
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Snacks/Drinks: Bring your own or use the convenience stores in the park.
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Bicycle: Rent at the bike stations (look for “Seoul Bike - Ddareungi”) or on-site rental shops.
Picnic mat: Buy at Daiso or convenience stores near the park.
Snacks/Drinks: Bring your own or use the convenience stores in the park.
Bicycle: Rent at the bike stations (look for “Seoul Bike - Ddareungi”) or on-site rental shops.
🐣 Bonus Tip: Come Before Sunset!
Arrive around 4–5 PM — you’ll enjoy:
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Daytime activities
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Sunset by the river
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Beautiful night views as the lights turn on
Perfect for photos and a chill picnic!
✨ Final Thoughts
The Han River isn’t just a tourist spot — it’s a living part of Seoul’s rhythm. It gives locals a place to breathe, play, and connect. Whether you go for a quiet walk, a night picnic, or an afternoon bike ride, the Han River is the perfect place to experience the soul of the city.
If you’re visiting Seoul, don’t miss the chance to spend a day at the Han River — like a local. It just might be the highlight of your trip.😊
