Han River Swimming Pools Reopen for Summer 2025: Where to Swim in Seoul’s Iconic River Parks

As summer heat settles over Seoul, the return of the Hangang swimming pools offers a local escape that travellers and residents will appreciate. From 20 June to 31 August 2025, three swimming pools and three water playgrounds will reopen across the city’s iconic river parks.

If you’re looking for a new adventure in Seoul, seeking a family-friendly outing, or just wanting relief from the stifling summer humidity, these open-air facilities offer an affordable, refreshing break from the city heat.

Also read: Top Summer Festivals in Korea: Best Things to Do in 2025

What to expect in 2025

All pools will operate daily from 9am to 10pm, with upgraded safety systems, water-quality monitoring, and shaded zones for rest. The swimming pools feature full-sized pools for swimmers of all ages, offering space for laps, relaxation, and water play. The water playgrounds are designed mainly for younger children, with shallow splash zones, fountains, and mist sprays.

Tickets remain affordable, reflecting the city’s goal of accessible public leisure:

Swimming Pools: Adults ₩5,000 | Teenagers ₩4,000 | Children ₩3,000
Water Playgrounds: Adults ₩3,000 | Teenagers ₩2,000 | Children ₩1,000

Children under six enter free at all locations.

Facilities include changing rooms, hot showers, coin lockers, and sun-safe zones, with staff on standby for safety and first aid. Swimming caps are required, so bring your own or buy one at the entrance.

Where to swim: Hangang’s 6 open pools and water playgrounds

Note that only 6 of the usual 9 facilities are open, with Mangwon and Gwangnaru still closed for construction.

Yeouido Swimming Pool

With sweeping river views and a central location, Yeouido is one of the most scenic spots to swim in Seoul. The pool is framed by greenery and walkways, and music often drifts in from nearby pop-up events. It’s a favourite for couples, groups, and tourists looking for a relaxed but lively atmosphere.

In the evenings, you might catch buskers or an open-air cinema just steps from the water. Late afternoon visits offer cooler air and golden light over the Han River.

How to get there: Yeouinaru Station (Line 5, Exit 2)

Ttukseom Swimming Pool

Ttukseom is big on energy, size, and atmosphere. Popular with younger locals and students, it features a lively splash zone, aqua ring, lazy river, and water fountain shows throughout the day.

You can also rent water sports equipment like paddleboards, kayaks, and water bikes. It’s arguably the trendiest spot in the lineup.

How to get there: Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7, Exit 2)

Jamwon Swimming Pool

Tucked into a quieter riverside near Apgujeong, Jamwon is popular with families and those seeking a more laid-back vibe. It offers pools of various depths and plenty of shade from surrounding trees.

Its low-key atmosphere makes it perfect for a mellow afternoon swim, especially if you’re staying near Gangnam or Sinsa.

How to get there: Apgujeong Station (Line 3, Exit 6) + 15–20 minute walk

Also read: 10 Epic Water Activities in Southeast Asia: From Diving to River Cruising

Jamsil Water Playground

This playground is designed for kids but built to keep everyone cool. With gentle fountains, mist sprays, water wheels, and stream-style channels, it’s a perfect alternative to full pools for toddlers and young children.

Parents will appreciate shaded seating areas while older siblings can play nearby in the park. Located near Lotte World, it’s easy to combine with other Seoul sights.

How to get there: Jamsilnaru Station (Line 2, Exit 6)

Yanghwa Water Playground

Yanghwa is smaller than Jamsil but just as pleasant for splashing about. The play areas are shallower and quieter, with water jets, wooden benches, and resting decks ideal for families seeking a relaxed outdoor spot.

How to get there: Dangsan Station (Lines 2 & 9, Exit 4)

Nanji Water Playground

Nanji’s playground is best known for its stunning infinity-style edge that blends seamlessly into the Han River, offering breathtaking views along with shallow splash zones, bubbling jets, and mist fans.

Near Nanji camping ground and World Cup Park, it’s perfect for a full day out with plenty of picnic space and walking trails for breaks from the water.

How to get there: World Cup Stadium Station (Line 6, Exit 1) + 20 minute walk or short bus ride

Seoul summers: Why you’ll be grateful for a dip

If you haven’t lived through a Korean summer, here’s what to expect: temperatures regularly climb above 33°C, humidity clings like a blanket (we all know how horrible that feels), and the monsoon season brings sudden downpours through July and early August.

Luckily, Seoul offers ways to beat the heat. Besides the pools, you can cool off with a bowl of bingsu, Korea’s famous shaved ice dessert, or hop on an evening Han River ferry cruise to catch a breeze and enjoy the city lights.

For a truly local experience, visit a jjimjilbang, where you can relax in air-conditioned rooms and take an icy plunge to reset your body from the heat.

Also read: 9 Unique Food Factories and Attractions to Visit in Japan

Make a splash this summer

Even with fewer locations this year, Hangang’s swimming pools and water playgrounds remain one of the best ways to survive, and even enjoy, the summer heat in Seoul.

So grab your sun cream, pack your towel, and head to the water. Seoul’s summer doesn’t wait, and neither should you.