The 1.2km Han River Through Downtown Seoul: Experience Its Unique Charm with the 'Han River Bus' (Free Trial!)
A 1.2km Wide Han River in Downtown Seoul: Experience the City's Uniqueness with the 'Han River Bus' (Free Trial!)
Can you imagine cruising on a wide river that flows right through the heart of a bustling city? This is a special experience possible in Seoul.
The Han River: Seoul's Unique Waterway
The Han River's width in downtown Seoul ranges from approximately 900m to 1,200m. Many major cities worldwide have rivers, but it's rare for such a wide river to pass through a city's core. Rivers in major European cities like the Seine in Paris (approx. 150m) or the Thames in London (approx. 300m) are narrower than the Han River. New York's Hudson River, at about 1.4km wide, is broader than the Han River.
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Wikipedia notes that Seoul is "one of the few great cities to be divided by a huge river up to 1.2 kilometers wide." Megacities with rivers of similar scale to the Han River are very rare. While extremely wide rivers can be seen on the outskirts of cities (like the Yangtze in Shanghai or the Congo in Kinshasa), it's uncommon for a river of the Han River's width to flow directly through a city's central area.
Introducing the Han River Bus
The Han River Bus is an eco-friendly water public transport system introduced by Seoul City. It aims to ease traffic congestion in the Han River basin and offer citizens and tourists a new travel experience. Its official operation is set for September 2025, with citizen experience programs running in July and August.
Han River Bus Features
Eco-friendly Vessels: They use a hybrid system combining diesel generators and lithium-ion batteries. This reduces carbon emissions by about 48%. A total of 12 vessels (8 hybrid, 4 electric) will operate.
Vessel Specifications: They are 35m long and 9.5m wide catamarans. Their average speed is 17 knots (31.5 km/h), and they can carry up to 199 passengers.
Amenities: All seats have personal tables and panoramic windows. There's a cafeteria onboard, and bicycle racks (for 20 bikes) and wheelchair seating (4 seats) are available.
Safety: Life vests are provided at every seat. Safety features like bridge collision prevention markers and a control system are reinforced. The hull height is designed low to pass under the submerged Jamsu Bridge.
Routes and Schedule
The Han River Bus will operate on general and express routes.
General Route: Magok ↔ Mangwon ↔ Yeouido ↔ Oksu ↔ Apgujeong ↔ Ttukseom ↔ Jamsil (7 docks total). This takes about 75 minutes.
Express Route: Magok ↔ Yeouido ↔ Jamsil. This takes about 54 minutes.
Operating Hours:
Weekdays: 7:00 AM ~ 10:30 PM
Weekends & Public Holidays: 9:30 AM ~ 10:30 PM
Frequency: Buses will run every 15 minutes during rush hour and every 30 minutes during other times, with up to 68 trips per day.
How to Use and Fares
Fares: Adults 3,000 KRW, Youth 1,800 KRW, Children 1,100 KRW.
Payment Method: You can tap a transportation card (like T-money) on the terminal or buy tickets at machines installed at the docks.
Discounts: When using a transportation card, transfer discounts apply for other public transport (bus, subway). Unlimited rides are available with the Climate Card.
How International Visitors Can Use It
International tourists can use the Han River Bus just like locals. You can buy tickets at the dock machines or use a transportation card. International visitors can also apply for the free trial event before its official launch in September.
Han River Bus Free Trial Event
Before its official launch in September, Seoul City is running an "Early Bird" free ride program for citizens and tourists.
Operating Period: From July 1 to August 23, 2025, operating every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Trial Route: The free trial runs one-way from Yeouido Dock → Ttukseom Dock → Jamsil Dock.
Operating Times:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Saturdays: 2:00 PM (Note: Starting July 15, the Saturday 2:00 PM ride will change to 10:00 AM due to summer heat.)
How to Apply: Anyone, local or international, can apply through the 'Han River Bus Citizen Experience' application website:
https://hangangbus.govent.kr/ . Register your name, gender, and contact information.
Experience Seoul Anew with the Han River Bus!
The Han River Bus offers a new way to see Seoul. More than just a ride, it's a journey through the city's heart. The Han River Bus provides comfort and new perspectives.
If you're looking for a relaxing cruise, efficient travel, or unique photos, try the Han River Bus. The free trial is happening now.
Are you thinking of taking a ride on the Han River Bus?
