Time of the Summer Festival on the Han River - Hangang Summer Festival 2025
Traveling to Seoul's Han River in the summer is always a sought-after trend every year, especially for those who want to experience summer in Seoul in a truly "native" way. (Photo: Collected)
Hangang Summer Festival is one of the most popular Korean summer festivals , held along the banks of the Han River – the vibrant symbol of Seoul .
The 2025 festival is scheduled to take place from late July to mid-August, spanning 11 riverside parks such as:
- Yeouido Hangang Park
- Banpo Hangang Park
- Ttukseom, Mangwon, Ichon, Jamwon...
This is not just a festival, but a journey to experience summer in Seoul with dozens of cultural activities, water sports and performing arts. The 4 highlights include:
1. Kayaking, pedal boating, SUP – Experience water sports
In the heart of the bustling capital, immersing yourself on the calm waters of the Han River brings an extremely relaxing and novel feeling. Water sports activities at Hangang are not only a form of exercise but also a very Korean way to “enjoy summer”.
If you are a lover of gentle sports and nature, summer activities in Seoul such as kayaking, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), or pedal boating on the Han River are highlights worth trying. (Photo: Collected)
1.1. Kayaking at sunset, romantic and chill in true Korean style
Imagine: you are sitting on a kayak, gliding gently, in front of you is the sun slowly setting behind the tall buildings, reflecting its orange-red light on the river surface. No car horns, no city noise, just the rippling water, a gentle breeze, and your companion beside you.
- Suggested location: Ttukseom Hangang Park (famous kayaking area)
- Ideal time: 16:30 – 18:00
- Cost: 15,000 – 20,000 KRW (about 300–400k VND)
- Suggested suitable group: Couples, people who like to live slowly, want to see the scenery
"I once kayaked at dusk in Ttukseom - the feeling of tranquility in the middle of the water made me forget this was the bustling center of Seoul. A truly "healing" experience.
1.2. Gentle water biking and paddle boarding with friends and family
If you want a low-tech, low-key activity that’s still fun and has a great view, pedal boats and water bikes are great options. Each boat usually seats 2–4 people, making it a great place to chat with friends while enjoying the scenery on both sides of the river.
- Suggested locations: Yeouido or Jamwon Hangang Park
- Tip: Go before 5pm to avoid the harsh sunlight.
- Suitable for: Families with young children, groups of friends who like to have fun
1.3. Paddle board (SUP) - A "cool" experience for people who love exercise
SUP or stand up paddle boarding - requires a bit of balance but is extremely fun. Standing in the middle of the Han River, you will feel like you are in a Korean summer movie: free, liberal and "cool".
- Get a trainer to guide you if you've never tried it before.
- For sports lovers who like new challenges
- Wear light, wet sportswear.
“The first time I stood on a SUP after falling a few times - the feeling of 'going beyond the limit' was really memorable. And the photo standing in the middle of the river with the sunset behind is definitely an Instagram highlight!”
Whether you’re an active person, a sports lover or simply want to “chill a little” by the river – there’s a version of Han River boating activities for you. Don’t forget to book in advance, choose sunset time to get the best view, and remember to bring a waterproof phone if you like taking pictures!
2. Silent Disco, EDM Music Night and Floating Stage – Silent Disco in the middle of the river
If the Han River is peaceful during the day, when night falls, it suddenly transforms into an artistic “outdoor club”. The music programs at the Hangang Summer Festival 2025 are unlike any festival you have ever known - unique, fresh and full of Seoul.
One of the things that makes this Korean summer festival special is the musical activities held right on... the water. (Photo: Collected)
2.1. Silent Disco – When music disturbs no one, just for you
Silent Disco is a very “chill” and civilized experience. Each person will be given wireless headphones that can choose the music channel: DJ house, techno, hip hop or K-pop remix. It's quiet all around, but everyone is “partying” in their own way, which is interesting to see: No noise - no disturbance to others; A sense of privacy but still connecting with the community; You can... sing loudly, dance wildly, and no one will hear.
- Suggested locations: Banpo Park or Yeouido
- Time: 20:00 – 22:30 weekend
- Tip: Choose the blue channel headphones if you like “groove” music, the red channel if you love K-pop remixes.
“At first I was a bit shy, but after 5 minutes I was… completely immersed. Each person had their own dance, their own rhythm, but we laughed together as if we had known each other for a long time. An extremely effective way to relieve stress!”
2.2. Floating Stage and Floating Concerts – Live Music on the Water
The highlight of the festival is the performances on floating stages arranged right on the river or close to the shore. From a distance, you can sit and picnic while listening to live singers, or get closer to feel the music spreading through every breeze.
The music genres are very diverse:
- Improvisational Jazz – Performing Artists from Art Schools in Korea
- Indie acoustic and ballads – ideal for poetry lovers
- K-pop DJ set and remix – for fans of BTS, BLACKPINK, NewJeans…
- Notable locations: Floating Stage at Sebitseom Island, or near Banpo Bridge with artistic water light displays
- Tips: Come early to choose a good seat, bring a mat or pillow to sit for a long time without getting tired. No need to jostle, still "burn" yourself out
What makes summer activities in Seoul special is the way Koreans turn public spaces into civilized and comfortable entertainment places. Not as crowded as other festivals, but still "hot" enough for you to dance, sing, scream and feel like you are really living life to the fullest.
“I never thought I would dance alone by the Han River, with headphones and EDM music. But I did and felt strangely free.”
If you want a different evening, both relaxing and trendy, then Silent Disco and Floating Concert are the highlights not to be missed in your Seoul Han River tour this summer. Bring positive energy and a heart that knows how to "dance", you will see Seoul at night is very different.
3. Outdoor Cinema and Fireworks Cruise - Summer Date on the Water
If the Han River is peaceful and refreshing during the day, at night, its surface becomes an emotional stage – where music, light and cinema connect hearts that love summer. Within the framework of the Hangang Summer Festival 2025, outdoor cinema and fireworks cruises are two of the most romantic and “sublime” experiences.
A favorite activity of many tourists when traveling to Seoul’s Han River is… lying on a picnic mat, enjoying snacks and watching a classic Korean movie in the night sky. (Photo: Collected)
3.1. Cinema under the stars - Cinema and memories melt into the cool breeze of the Han River
Have you ever thought about watching a romantic Korean drama, eating hot popcorn and leaning on someone's shoulder, right in the heart of Seoul at night?
Every weekend night during the festival, riverside parks such as Yeouido, Ttukseom or Banpo transform into “thousand star” cinemas. Open spaces, soft yellow lights, the sound of splashing water combined with music from the movie – create an atmosphere that is both private and sweet.
Movies are usually shown:
- Classic Korean romance like My Sassy Girl, The Classic
- Ghibli or Disney animation - for families and couples
- Art Documentary - A Deeper Experience
- Suggested locations: Yeouido Park, Banpo Hangang Park
- Time: 19:30 – 21:30 (Friday - Sunday)
- Tip: Bring a small flashlight and an inflatable pillow to make watching movies more comfortable.
“There's nothing better than an evening sitting next to the person you love, laughing, being emotional… and then touching hands as fireworks suddenly explode in the sky, right?”
3.2. Night cruise experience - Strolling under glowing bridges
Cruises depart from major ports like Yeouido or Jamsil, gently cutting through the waves and taking you past familiar Seoul landmarks: the Banpo Bridge spouting light, the shimmering Sebitseom Island, or the towers reflecting the moonlight.
The space on the boat is not too luxurious, but sophisticated enough: there is live acoustic or jazz music, soft lighting, sometimes a small buffet table or a cool drink bar. You can stand on the deck, chat, take pictures, or just quietly watch Seoul slowly pass by.
- Recommended pier: Yeouido Han River Cruise Terminal
- Time: 19:30 – 21:30 every evening during the festival
- Tip: Book tickets early from airlines like Eland Cruise, choose a time slot near 9:00 p.m. to coincide with the fireworks.
3.3. Fireworks on the River - Emotions Explode in the Air
The climax of the journey is when the boat stops in the middle of the river and the fireworks display begins. Without having to jostle with the crowds, you can lift your head, put your hands on the railing and welcome each wave of fireworks that explodes in the Seoul sky.
The explosion echoed, the colors reflected on the water, and the instrumental music playing in the yacht's speakers. A moment that cannot be captured in a camera, only recorded in memory.
Many people chose fireworks as the “end” of a long day of playing in Hangang. Some held hands, some sat alone… but everyone was living in a moment where their hearts were filled with emotions.
“I buried myself in work all year. But the moment I saw the fireworks explode over the Han River - I could only smile. No need to take a photo, just capturing that feeling was enough.”
Night cruises and fireworks are not just tourist activities, but also beautiful memories in the journey to discover Hangang Summer Festival 2025. A summer experience in Seoul that is quiet but deep, smooth but explosive.
4. Camping and Night Market by the River - When Summer in Seoul Becomes a Mini Adventure
You don’t have to go to the mountains or far to camp. In Seoul, just a few minutes by metro, you can pitch a tent, grill meat, and enjoy a peaceful summer night right by the Han River. Hangang Summer Festival 2025 offers a true “staycation” experience - where the city and nature meet in a relaxing pace.
Without leaving the city, you can still “change the wind” on the weekend with a picnic or light camping on the banks of the Han River. (Photo: Collected)
4.1. Camping in the heart of the city - "Staycation" in true Korean style
At parks like Nanji, Yeouido, or Jamwon, you can rent a tent or bring your own and set it up right next to the river. The open green space, cool breeze, and fresh air are enough to “reset” your mind after long, stuffy days in the city.
- Koreans often bring: Mini BBQ set (available at nearby convenience stores); Picnic mat, air pillow, folding chair; Small Bluetooth speaker to play soft music (no noise)
- Many people choose to stay overnight, stargazing, chatting, or simply… doing nothing, just lying around and listening to the wind.
- Ideal location: Nanji Hangang Park (Seoul World Cup Stadium)
- Tip: If you don't have camping gear, you can rent a tent, mat, table and chairs for about 20,000 - 30,000 KRW on the spot.
“That night it was not too hot, not too cold, just right enough to lie on the carpet, watch the fireworks in the distance and feel like I was living the summer I had dreamed of.”
4.2. Riverside night market – Buy fun, buy things, buy emotions
As night falls, areas like Banpo, Mangwon and Yeouido come alive with riverside night markets that are more than just places to eat and drink, they are vibrant spaces of culture, art and community.
You will find:
- Street food: Spicy Tokbokki, hot fish skewers, honey fried chicken, Korean rolled ice cream...
- Handmade booth: soaps, bracelets, hand-painted cards, scented candles
- Performing arts corner: acoustic, LED dance, street drama
- Special: There is also a retro-style instant photo area, mini game booth and lucky draw to win prizes.
Note:
- Notable night market: Banpo Moonlight Market (open only on weekends)
- Opening hours: 18:00 – 23:00
- Tip: Bring cash or a T-Money card as some stalls do not accept international cards.
“I bought a small bracelet engraved with the words '화양연화' (the most beautiful time of youth). The seller said that summer by the Han River was their youth - and I understood why.”
From the sizzling sound of grilled meat by the fire, the guitar playing from a group of young people, to the sparkling lights of the stalls... all create a summer experience in Seoul that doesn't need to be extravagant, but is still enough to make the heart flutter. Camping and night markets are not just activities, but a slow, gentle and memorable way of life. In the fast pace of Seoul, this is the time for you to stop and enjoy every second - as if this summer is just for you.
Hangang Summer Festival 2025 is an event not to be missed if you want to enjoy a summer full of color, music and unique experiences right in the capital city of Seoul. From river sports activities, special concerts, to outdoor movie nights and brilliant fireworks, this festival is sure to make you love the “green heart” of the city even more. Plan your trip to Seoul’s Han River now and immerse yourself in Korea’s most unique summer festival this year!
Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/kinh-nghiem-du-lich-song-han-seoul-mua-he-trai-nghiem-hoat-dong-noi-bat-nhat-tai-hangang-summer-festival-v17511.aspx
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