The Han River: a thousand ways to enjoy Seoul

THE ORIGINAL ESSAY

Seoul recently declared a “Han River Renaissance,” which involves the creation of a sustainable ecological environment that surrounds the Han River along which the city was first established. This green network that parallels the Han River represents the creation of space for citizens to enjoy cultural and leisure activities. Through the Han River Renaissance, a dramatic eco-friendly revitalization of this symbol of Seoul, the Han River will be reborn as a wellspring of the city’s dynamic energy.

Many public parks line the riverbanks including Nodeulseom, Seoul Forest, and Seonyudo Parks. From the marinas along the river, including Yeouido, Jamsil, and Ttukseom, you can board an excursion boat to cruise the river for an hour for only ten dollars. The lighting on the bridges across the river creates a spectacular night scene.

The riverside parks that line the shores of the Han are a recreational dream for Seoulites. Bicycle riding, rollerblading, walking or jogging along the river, more than 150,000 people a day find respite here to pass sultry summer nights, enjoy the Autumn colors or even brave the wintry Seoul winds.

The rapid economic growth Korea achieved after the Korean War was called the Miracle on the Han River. Now the Han River is the source of a second miracle, changing the concrete-covered terrace land on the river into a soulful space with ecological parks where wild flowers can bloom and people can enjoy unique cultural and leisure facilities. Access to the river from subway stations and public parks is easy through pedestrian passages.

The Han River is also a great meeting place for Koreans who often socialize with friends and family for a leisurely time in a park playing with their kids, having a picnic, even drinking late into the evening hours, or just enjoying a refreshing breeze. There are a thousand ways to enjoy the Han River. How will you do it?

From Peter’s supplied Seoul guidebook introduction, chapter 23. Original observations and historical framing are retained. PDF line-break and spacing repairs are recorded separately from factual updates. Guidebook photography and venue directories are not republished.