If you're looking for a way to beat the Seoul summer heat without leaving the city, the Hangang outdoor pools are one of the best answers around. Every year from late June through the end of August, the Han River parks transform into a riverside summer resort.

This summer, six locations along the river are open for the season: Ttukseom, Yeouido, Jamsil, Gwangnaru, Nanji, and Yanghwa. The pools officially opened on June 19 and run through August 30, with no days off during the season. Most spots operate from 9 AM to 6 PM, but if you prefer to avoid the midday heat, selected venues including Ttukseom, Yeouido, Jamsil, and Nanji offer extended evening hours until 10 PM from July 3 onward — night swimming by the river is a whole different experience and worth trying at least once, though it may get crowded during the weekends!

Each location has its own personality, but across the board you'll find pools divided by age group and depth, with options for kids and adults. Yeouido stands out as one of the most popular spots, capable of accommodating over 3,600 visitors at once. Ttukseom is beloved for its relaxed riverside atmosphere, while Jamsil offers three pools at different depths alongside rows of sunbeds and parasols. Gwangnaru, freshly reconstructed, rejoins the lineup this year as well. There are also lifeguards on duty across all six sites and on-site medical facilities with emergency equipment on hand.

The tickets are very affordable - adults pay 5,000 won for the pools and 3,000 won for water playgrounds, while children under 6 get in free. One parasol is provided free of charge for every four visitors, and lockers are available for a small fee. Towels and swim caps are not provided, so bring your own or buy them on-site. A swim cap is mandatory, do not forget to bring one!!. Large inflatables, fins, snorkels, and kickboards are not permitted inside the pools.

You're welcome to bring light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks from home, but delivered food and alcohol are off-limits. Note that entry is paused during lunch breaks (12–1 PM) and dinner breaks (5:30–7 PM), so time your visit accordingly. Swimming also stops for 15-minute breaks at the end of every  hour for the safety of visitors and staff.

Getting there by public transport is the smart move — the facilities are well-connected by subway and bus, and parking near the parks gets congested quickly on hot days. Come early for the most pleasant expereince~