Han River Swimming Pools 2026 Schedule: A Foreigner's Complete Guide

Han River Swimming Pools 2026: Your Complete Guide

After three years here, I've learned that summer in Seoul can be brutally hot and humid. The Han River swimming pools (한강 수영장) are honestly one of my favorite ways to beat the heat without leaving the city. If you're planning to cool off this summer, here's everything you need to know.

When Are They Open?

The Han River pools typically open in early July and close in late August 2026. Most years, they run from around July 1st to August 31st, but I'd recommend checking the official Seoul Metro website (seoulmetro.co.kr) or calling 1330 (Seoul Tourism Hotline) in early June to confirm exact dates, since they sometimes shift slightly.

Which Locations Should You Visit?

There are five main Han River parks with swimming pools, but the most popular for visitors are:

• Yeouido (여의도): Closest to Gangnam, super convenient
• Jamsil (잠실): Good for families, near Lotte World
• Ttukseom (뚝섬): Great atmosphere, less crowded than Yeouido
• Banpo (반포): My personal favorite—beautiful fountain views
• Gwangnaru (광나루): Further out but quieter and cheaper

Each pool has its own vibe, so I'd suggest visiting a couple to find your favorite.

Pricing and Entry

Here's the practical stuff. Entry typically costs KRW 10,000-12,000 for adults, with discounts for kids and seniors. Some locations charge slightly more for weekends. My tip? Go on a weekday morning if possible—way less crowded and you'll actually enjoy yourself instead of fighting crowds.

You'll need to bring:

• Your passport or ID
• A towel (you can rent one for KRW 3,000)
• Flip-flops
• Sunscreen (seriously, don't skip this)

Pro tip: Rent a locker (KRW 1,000-2,000 deposit, fully refunded) for your valuables. Changing rooms are decent but not fancy.

Practical Tips From a Foreigner

Getting There: Use Naver Map (네이버 지도) or Kakao Map to find which subway station is closest to your chosen pool. Most parks are a 10-15 minute walk from the nearest station. Yeouido is literally walking distance from the subway.

Timing: Arrive early—like 10-11am. By afternoon, you'll be packed in like sardines. Also, peak heat is 2-4pm, so come morning or late afternoon instead.

Photography: The pools are Instagram-worthy, especially at Banpo with the fountain in the background. Just be respectful—changing areas are off-limits for cameras.

Food & Facilities: Each location has convenience stores and food vendors selling tteokbokki (떡볶이), kimbap (김밥), and cold drinks. Prices are typical Seoul park prices—nothing outrageous. Facilities include showers, bathrooms, and some have cafes.

What to Know: Most pools have different areas for different swim levels. The water is maintained and checked regularly, so it's generally clean. That said, peak days (weekends) can feel a bit gross by late afternoon.

Pro Foreigner Hacks

1. Check the weather app before going—rainy days close pools temporarily
2. Bring cash for parking (around KRW 5,000) and locker deposits
3. Go in the morning between 10am-12pm for the best experience
4. Don't forget sunscreen—honestly, can't stress this enough. The sun reflects off the water
5. Consider buying a season pass (보증금 + 이용권) if you plan multiple visits

The Han River pools are genuinely one of the best