Ushered in by the flowing breeze, the scent of summer is nothing short of refreshing. The cool weather of the early summer season has arrived. The colors all around seem to grow more pronounced with rays of the summer sun beaming down on us. As these colors become more distinct, there's that growing urge to head over to the Hangang River.

Cutting through the center of Seoul, the Hangang River reflects the city's diverse landscapes. Summer is the perfect season to enjoy the Hangang River. Let’s step away from the distracting concrete jungle and head to Hangang Park. Beloved by all, from those living in or visiting Seoul, Hangang River awaits, ready to brighten up your summer with vibrant colors.

A Dynamic Experience on Paddle Boards

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Hangang River! You can sit on the grassy fields of Hangang Park and bask in the summer sun, watch incredible fountain shows, enjoy the sunset at a gorgeous café that looks like an island floating on the river, go for a jog, bike, or even hike along the riverside. Then, what about taking to the water currents of Hangang River?

“The most significant advantage of the Hangang River water activities is that you can enjoy them in the heart of the city.
When the sun goes down, you can even get a clear view of the Lotte Tower and Namsan Seoul Tower from the water.
It's simply an amazing experience to do water activities while enjoying the sunset and the night view of Seoul!"
Surf Instructor Yoo Jun

People enjoying water leisure sports are no longer a rare scene at the Hangang River. Have you ever envied those on surfboards, kayaks, and paddleboards ripping through the water? If so, it’s your turn to give it a try. This edition of Seoulites’ Picks shares how beginners can even enjoy paddle boards.

Also referred to as SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard), a paddleboard is a water leisure sport that combines surfing and kayaking. The key to paddle boarding is to row while standing on the board. Since paddle boards are bigger and broader than surfboards, men and women of all ages can learn and enjoy them without feeling any burden. The Ttukseom Hangang Park is often called the holy ground for water leisure sports at Hangang River. Its relatively low velocity and clean waters offer a beginner-friendly environment, and it is optimal for enjoying various activities, including paddle boards and windsurfing, water skiing, and motorboats.

“If you're looking for a memorable sunset in the city,
why head out to enjoy some water activities at the Hangang River?”

“On the surface, it look like something only pros can take on, so many people don’t dare to even try it.
However, anyone can do water activities on the Hangang River, so I suggest to at least give it a try.
You'll be able to experience a whole new world of fun!”

For those that have always been looking at Hangang River from afar, try experiencing it up close for something totally different. Drinking a cool drink or enjoying some snacks while sitting on a paddle board will be a new and fun experience for sure. Try paddle boarding at sunset and seemingly be whisked away to a beautiful vacation spot. Come and enjoy the fresh breeze while cutting through the waters of the Hangang River on a paddle board at the heart of the dynamic city of Seoul.

• Address: 94, Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
• Operation Hours: Varies per business

Mulgyul Hangang: An All-inclusive View of Hangang River

The water ripples softly shine in the sunlight. The currents slowly dance, rhythmically going up and down at equal heights. The sun sitting on top of the bridges that connect the ends of the river adds a certain vividness to the colors of the unfolding scenery. There is a new place where you can enjoy the beauty of the Hangang River that bestows happiness simply with its view.

Newly open in Nanji Hangang Park since last March, Mulgyul Hangang has reproduced the currents of the Hangang River intact. Starting from the entrance and throughout the entire café, the identity of Mulgyul Hangang is well-conveyed with wavy fonts and elegant, curvy benches placed outdoors. The second floor of Mulgyul Hangang features the best view of the river with its full-length windows in all directions. The open view from Hangang Park and Hangang River to the World Cup Bridge offers your eyes a splendid refreshment. In the evening, the lights are dimmed so patrons can fully enjoy the radiant nightscape of the Hangang River, making Mulgyul Hangang the perfect place for a romantic date.

Besides basic coffee menu items, their signature menu includes the Wave Sangria, Wave Mojito, and Cream Chocolate Latte. TWG black tea and desserts, including terrines and cookies, are also available. You may bring your furry friend to Mulgyul Hangang as long as you sit outside. If you plan to visit Mulgyul Hangang by car, set your destination to the public parking lot under the Nanji World Cup Ramp for convenient access. Enjoy the early summer evening in Seoul at the sophisticated and elegant Mulgyul Hangang.

• Address: 296, Maponaru-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Phone: +82-507-1351-9138
• Operation Hours: 11:00 – 22:00 KST (Closed on Mondays)
• Instagram: @mulgyul_hangang

Nodeulseom Island: The Complete Package

Seoul is a city with countless varieties, from high mountains found in and around the city and the vastness of the Hangang River cutting horizontally across Seoul, to the downtown business district of Seoul, packed with towering skyscrapers. All the while, you can also hanok neighborhoods with their Korean traditional roof-tiled structures. Seoul brings together essences from different periods of time that harmoniously blend together.

The oval-shaped Nodeulseom Island, located at the center of Hangangdaegyo Bridge, is yet another side of the beautiful city. Outside of Nodeulseom Island, visitors can enjoy nature alongside Hangang River while walking along a trail. Meanwhile, the indoor area has cultural spaces, enabling various cultural experiences. With a solid mix of nature and culture, Nodeulseom Island has plenty to enjoy.

Starting with a sculpted artwork at the entrance, various spaces that offer excitement to your five senses unfold as you proceed indoors. Nodeulseom Island offers a very diverse interior, including a music performance stage, book café, spaces for plants and culture, as well as exhibitions, art shops, and outdoor spaces, including a forest, open square, and trail. Living up to its identity of a cultural complex, various concerts and cultural events are also held. You can check the event details at the Nodeulseom Island website. We recommend visitors travel to the island by public transport, or on foot, due to the limited parking space available.

If you are visiting Nodeulseom Island, don’t miss out on the sunset lighting up the backdrop of the high-rise buildings of Yeouido. It represents a wonderful collaboration of humans and nature for a truly stunning view. Why not start a memorable summer at Nodeulseom Island where you can get the most of all worlds at your fingertips?

• Address: 445, Yangnyeong-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
• Phone: +82-2-749-4500
• Operation Hours: 10:00 – 21:00 KST (Closed on Mondays)
• Website: https://nodeul.org/