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Seoul turns Han River into day-and-night summer destination

by Joonha Yoo Posted : July 27, 2026, 16:16Updated : July 27, 2026, 16:16
Visitors watch an outdoor film beneath a Han River bridge in Seoul Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government
Visitors watch an outdoor film beneath a Han River bridge in Seoul. Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government
SEOUL, July 27 (AJP) - Seoul city will turn the Han River into a day-and-night summer destination from Aug. 1 to 16 with a festival featuring what the city calls the river's first synchronized surface drone show, overnight programs and expanded water sports.

The 2026 Hangang Summer Festival will be held across nine Han River parks and nearby waterfront areas, offering 16 programs ranging from live performances and outdoor screenings to water recreation, the Seoul Metropolitan Government said Monday.

One of the festival's headline events is the surface drone show. Some 25 autonomous surface drones will perform alongside live jazz and K-pop cover concerts during the Hangang Summer Music Picnic at Yanghwa Hangang Park on Aug. 1 and 2.
 
Performers sing on a candlelit waterfront stage along the Han River in Seoul Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government
Performers sing on a candlelit waterfront stage along the Han River in Seoul. Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government
The festival also expands overnight programming with activities designed to keep visitors at the river after dark. Programs include an overnight gathering featuring television drama and horror film screenings at Mangwon Hangang Park, silent DJ parties and yoga sessions using wireless headphones, and outdoor movie screenings beneath Han River bridges.

Hands-on activities include a traditional tightrope performance at Jamsil Hangang Park's swimming pool, a homemade boat race and an overnight walking challenge of up to 42 kilometers marking its 10th anniversary. Water safety workshops and ecology programs will also be offered for children and families.
 
Participants paddle a homemade raft during a water recreation program on the Han River in Seoul Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government
Participants paddle a homemade raft during a water recreation program on the Han River in Seoul. Courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government


The city is also expanding opportunities for visitors to experience the river through paddleboarding, kayaking, yachting and cruises. Participating operators will offer discounts of 10% to 50% on selected water leisure programs during the festival.

Seoul officials advised visitors to use public transportation during the festival, saying heavy crowds are expected at Han River parks throughout the event.

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