Starting next year, the Han River swimming pools will extend their operating season until the end of August and introduce regular nighttime hours.
This decision comes in response to the increasing summer heat and tropical nights, which have become more frequent due to climate change.
Traditionally, the Han River swimming pools and water parks have closed by August 18.
However, with the growing demand for evening swimming, especially following this summer’s trial run of the “Shining Moonlight Pool,” the city has decided to make nighttime operations a permanent feature during peak season, including school vacation periods.
The “Shining Moonlight Pool” event, held for the first time in 16 years, saw high levels of public interest, largely due to the picturesque city views and the unique experience of nighttime swimming along the Han River. Photos shared on social media have further popularized the venue, turning it into a hot spot.
This summer, over 44,000 people, accounting for 14% of the total 311,000 visitors, enjoyed nighttime swimming.
The city anticipates even greater attendance next year, especially if popular locations like Ttukseom and Jamsil pools extend their hours until 10 p.m.
To accommodate this, the city plans to enhance lighting and safety facilities and add scenic lighting to create a resort-like atmosphere at the pools.
The Jamsil water park, which reopened this June after being transformed into a natural-style water playground, attracted over 55,000 visitors seeking relief from the heat.
Starting in September, the area will revert to a public park, offering year-round access.
Once the pool facilities are removed, the site will be open for strolling, with green spaces, sand play areas, and streams for relaxation until October.
This marks the beginning of a broader initiative to renovate aging Han River Park facilities, such as the Gwangnaru, Jamwon, and Mangwon pools, into versatile leisure and cultural spaces accessible throughout the year.
The city also plans to expand its unique Han River cultural offerings, such as “Han River Cinema Pongdang,” where visitors can watch movies while floating on tubes, and “Han River Music Pongdang,” featuring live music at infinity pools.
These programs aim to enhance the distinctive water recreation experience along the Han River.
