🧭 Introduction – Why Han River Is a Must for Every Foreigner in Seoul
If you ask anyone who has lived in Seoul long enough what truly defines the city, most will mention the Han River (한강).
Stretching across the entire city, this river isn’t just a body of water — it’s the social heart of Seoul.
Koreans come here to relax, run, bike, have picnics, and enjoy 치맥 (fried chicken and beer) by the water.
For foreigners, the Han River is more than a tourist attraction. It’s a place where you can see everyday Korean life, unwind after work, and meet locals and other expats.
So, if you’re living in or visiting Korea in 2025, having a picnic by the Han River is not just a fun day out — it’s a cultural experience you’ll never forget.
This guide will show you everything you need to know — best picnic spots, how to order food delivery, how to rent a bike, safety tips, and cultural etiquette that locals expect.
🏞️ 1. Best Han River Parks for a Perfect Picnic
There are more than 10 parks along the Han River, but not all are equally popular or foreigner-friendly.
Here are the most loved spots — the ones locals visit again and again, and where you’ll find a mix of Seoulites and foreigners enjoying the view.
1) Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도한강공원)
📍 Nearest station: Yeouinaru Station (Line 5)
This is the most famous and lively Han River park — especially in spring and fall.
It’s home to Seoul’s biggest festivals, such as the Seoul Fireworks Festival, and is surrounded by food stalls, convenience stores, and rental kiosks.
At night, the city lights reflect beautifully off the river, and you’ll often see people enjoying 치맥 on picnic mats.
💡 Pro Tip: On weekends, Yeouido can get extremely crowded. Arrive before 4 PM for a good spot, especially during warm weather.
2) Banpo Hangang Park (반포한강공원)
📍 Nearest station: Express Bus Terminal or Sinbanpo Station
Banpo is best known for the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show, one of Seoul’s most romantic night scenes.
Couples, tourists, and photographers gather here every evening to watch the colorful water show with Seoul Tower in the background.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket — the breeze off the river can get chilly at night, even in summer.
3) Ttukseom Hangang Park (뚝섬한강공원)
📍 Nearest station: Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7)
This park feels younger and sportier. You can rent bikes, electric scooters, and even kayaks.
The park also has a large open field where locals host small concerts and weekend markets.
💡 Pro Tip: Try 뚝섬수영장 (Ttukseom swimming pool) in summer or the small outdoor stage performances during spring weekends.
4) Mangwon Hangang Park (망원한강공원)
📍 Nearest station: Mangwon Station (Line 6)
If Yeouido and Banpo are too busy for your taste, Mangwon is your chill alternative.
It’s less touristy, has cozy convenience stores, and gives you a calmer, more local vibe.
You can also walk to Mangwon Market, one of Seoul’s best local food markets.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit before sunset — Mangwon is known for its stunning golden-hour light.
🍗 2. Food Delivery at the Han River – The Legendary “치맥 Culture”
If you’ve never eaten fried chicken and beer by the river, you haven’t truly experienced Seoul.
Locals call this 치맥 (Chi-maek) — “치킨 (chicken) + 맥주 (beer).”
And the Han River is where this tradition shines brightest.
Dozens of restaurants deliver directly to the park — you’ll see drivers zipping through with bags full of chicken boxes and cold beer.
🛵 How to Order Delivery Food at Han River
The two main apps are 배달의민족 (Baemin) and 요기요 (Yogiyo).
Unfortunately, they are in Korean, but here’s how to manage:
1️⃣ Download Baemin app (set to Korean region).
2️⃣ Use Google Translate’s “live translate” camera feature to navigate.
3️⃣ At Han River, select your current location — look for “한강공원 배달존 (Han River Delivery Zone)”.
4️⃣ Choose from dozens of chicken shops, pizza, tteokbokki, or burgers.
5️⃣ Pay via Korean card, or use a friend’s help.
6️⃣ Meet the driver at your chosen “Delivery Zone.”
🪶 Pro Tip: Bring your own trash bags — cleaning crews will thank you. There are signs everywhere reminding visitors to keep the park clean.
⚠️ No Glass Bottles!
Only cans or plastic bottles are allowed — park rangers will ask you to discard glass containers.
🚴 3. Bike Rentals – Ride Like a Local
Nothing beats cycling along the Han River as the skyline glows in the sunset.
Seoul’s “따릉이 (Ttareungyi)” public bike system is easy and affordable for foreigners.
🚲 How to Rent a Bike
1️⃣ Download the “Seoul Bike” app (English version available).
2️⃣ Register using your credit card or Korean T-money transportation card.
3️⃣ Choose rental period (₩1,000 for 1 hour / ₩2,000 for 2 hours).
4️⃣ Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it.
🗺️ Best Han River Bike Routes
- Yeouido → Banpo (Easy, scenic, great for beginners)
- Ttukseom → Jamsil Bridge (Moderate, great for sunset views)
- Mangwon → Mapo → Yeouido (Quiet, perfect for photographers)
💡 Safety Reminder:
Han River paths have separate lanes for pedestrians and bicycles.
Stay on your lane — accidents are common, and bikes can move fast!
If a cyclist rings their bell, it means “Watch out, I’m coming through.”
🎒 4. What to Bring for Your Han River Picnic
Don’t worry about heavy packing — most items can be rented or bought onsite.
Essentials:
- Picnic mat or small tent (₩5,000–10,000 at convenience stores)
- Power bank
- Mosquito repellent (summer)
- Reusable water bottle
- Trash bags
- Light jacket
Optional Extras:
- Bluetooth speaker (keep volume low!)
- Cards or board games
- Instant noodles (한강라면!) — sold at the park’s convenience stores, with hot water machines ready to use.
🚫 5. Local Etiquette & Safety Tips – What Foreigners Should Know
The Han River is one of the safest public places in Seoul, but locals have strong social rules that everyone should respect.
🚭 1) No Smoking
All Han River parks are non-smoking zones except for small designated areas.
If you smoke outside these zones, park officers may approach you — politely but firmly.
🍺 2) Drink Responsibly
Yes, you can drink at the Han River (it’s legal), but Koreans value moderation.
Avoid excessive noise or public drunkenness — it’s seen as disrespectful to families and elders around you.
💋 3) PDA (Public Displays of Affection)
Korea is generally conservative when it comes to public affection.
Holding hands is fine, but long kisses or excessive hugging in public can draw unwanted stares.
🚴 4) Bike & Scooter Safety
Stay alert when crossing paths. Cyclists move quickly, and e-scooters are common now.
If you hear a bell or horn, step aside rather than freeze — that’s the polite move.
🚶 5) Crossing Roads Safely
Before entering the park, always use crosswalks — cars often speed near bridges and ramps.
Pedestrian lights turn green only briefly, so wait patiently.
🗑️ 6) Keep the Park Clean
Han River is famous for being clean because of strict community culture.
Bring trash bags, recycle properly, and avoid leaving food waste — it attracts crows and seagulls.
🌉 7) Don’t Swim in the River
Even on hot summer days, swimming is prohibited for safety reasons.
You can, however, enjoy SUP boards, kayaking, or pedal boats in designated zones.
☀️ 6. Best Time to Visit Han River
| Season | Weather & Activities | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | Cherry blossoms, picnics, fireworks | Crowded on weekends |
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | Night picnics, music, outdoor movies | Hot and humid |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Golden leaves, cool breeze | Best time for photos |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Quiet river walks, frozen landscapes | Bring warm drinks! |
💡 Best Time of Day:
- Sunset (5–7 PM) – magical golden light
- Night (8–10 PM) – skyline and bridges illuminate
🧃 7. Hidden Local Experiences Near Han River
🏮 1) Banpo Moonlight Market
A weekend night market with food trucks and handmade crafts.
Great for trying street food like tteokbokki, corndogs, and Korean craft beer.
🧋 2) Cafés with River Views
Try Some Sevit Café near Banpo or Under Stand Avenue near Ttukseom.
They’re popular photo spots with panoramic river views.
🛶 3) Water Sports
Ttukseom and Jamwon have kayak and paddleboard rentals (₩20,000–₩30,000 per hour).
🎆 4) Fireworks or Drone Shows
Keep an eye on the Seoul Tourism site for events — the Han River hosts seasonal light shows and performances.
💬 8. Useful Korean Phrases for Your Han River Day
| English | Korean (Romanization) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) | Greeting |
| Thank you | 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) | Polite thanks |
| Where is the park entrance? | 입구 어디예요? (ipgu eodi-eyo?) | Asking direction |
| Can I drink beer here? | 여기서 맥주 마셔도 돼요? (yeogiseo maekju masyeodo dwaeyo?) | Asking permission |
| Where is the bathroom? | 화장실 어디예요? (hwajangsil eodi-eyo?) | Bathroom |
| Please throw this away | 이거 버려주세요 (igeo beoryeojuseyo) | Trash request |
💰 9. Budget Guide – How Much Does a Han River Picnic Cost?
| Item | Price (₩) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bike rental (1 hr) | 1,000 | Ttareungyi app |
| Picnic mat rental | 5,000 | Onsite stores |
| Fried chicken + beer | 25,000 | Delivered |
| Snacks + drinks | 10,000 | CU / GS25 |
| Total | ≈ 40,000–45,000 KRW (~$30) | Perfect for half-day |
💡 For couples or small groups, budget ₩60,000–₩80,000 for a 3–4 hour picnic.
🕊️ 10. Final Thoughts – Enjoy Seoul Like a Local
The Han River isn’t just Seoul’s landmark — it’s a window into Korean daily life.
From fried chicken picnics to peaceful bike rides and romantic sunsets, every part of it feels alive.
For foreigners, a day by the Han River is more than a simple outing — it’s a glimpse into how Seoulites relax, connect, and celebrate the city.
Respect the local culture, follow basic etiquette, and enjoy this space as locals do.
If you do, you’ll discover that the Han River isn’t just a place — it’s an experience.
