Credit: Korea Tourism Organization – Lee Beomsu

There’s a place frequently featured in K-drama scenes where the male and female protagonists go on dates or take a drive—it’s Hangang River, the vast river that flows through the heart of Seoul. It serves as a peaceful retreat for tired bodies and minds, and at times, it becomes a lively spot filled with fun and festivities. Let’s embark on a romantic trip along the Hangang River, where you can relive memorable moments from Korean dramas, movies, and commercials.

| Banpo Hangang Park

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization – Lim Chan-gyeong

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization – Lee Beomsu

Located near Banpodaegyo Bridge, Banpo Hangang Park is a public park along the Hangang River. It is close to the Seoul Express Bus Terminal and the shopping districts in Gangnam, making it a popular spot for both locals and international visitors looking to relax, just as Yi-seo (Kim Da-mi) did in Itaewon Class. The park’s outstanding feature is its splendid night view. The Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, recognized by Guinness as the world’s longest bridge fountain, and Some Sevit, a floating cultural space, dominate the scene. When the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain is in operation, it plays songs by aespa, Jannabi, STAYC, Oh My Girl, and many other artists, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.

| Yeouido Hangang Park

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization – Lee Beomsu

Credit: Korea Tourism Organization – IR Studio

In “Stranger,” Si-mok (Cho Seung-woo) goes for a late-night jog at Yeouido Hangang Park, a park known for its glamorous skyline. It is directly connected to Yeouinaru Station on line 5, making it exceptionally accessible. This park is definitely the closest to the daily lives of Seoul’s residents, hosting a variety of events throughout the year, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival and the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, as well as offering a free swimming pool in the summer.

| Mangwon Hangang Park

Mangwon Hangang Park, located in Mapo-gu, is a public park popular among Hallyu fans as the setting for the plogging date between Young-woo (Park Eun-bin) and Jun-ho (Kang Tae-oh) in “Extraordinary Attorney Woo.” It’s also a favorite picnic spot for the Millenials and Zoomers. With its beautiful view of the Hangang River, you can enjoy instant noodles you cooked in a machine at a convenience store and “chimaek” (fried chicken + beer). And this explains why Seoulites love this location so much. Plus, don’t miss the nearby Seoul Battleship Park, which features three retired warships.

* This column was last updated in November 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to confirm details before visiting.