The Han River Becomes a Water Sports Mecca, and Gwanghwamun Square Turns Into a Giant Water Park [Weekend Leisure]

There is a city where you can fully enjoy summer without going all the way to the sea. That city is Seoul. Ttukseom Hangang Park is bustling with people enjoying water sports, while wakeboarders cut across artificial waves in Apgujeong. Now Gwanghwamun Square is joining in as well. Starting on the 20th, an artificial beach with a sandy shore and water slides will be set up in the middle of the city. As the river and the square alternate as vacation spots, we took a look at Seoul Summer Beach 2026 and the Han River summer destinations recommended by STO.
■As if walking on water... paddleboards and windsurfing at Ttukseom
The best place to feel the heat of summer on the Han River is Ttukseom Hangang Park. The stretch between Jamsil Bridge and Cheongdam Bridge has a slow current and a wide riverbed, making it ideal for water activities. In summer, colorful windsurfing sails rise above the silver waves, and the area fills with people enjoying paddleboards.
Windsurfing is a sport in which riders glide across the water using the power of the wind. Because the Han River does not have rough waves, beginners can learn relatively safely, and first-time participants continue to come here.
Paddleboarding is appealing because it can be enjoyed without any special skills. Whether standing or sitting on the board and paddling along the Han River, it is easy to forget that you are in the middle of a city. The most impressive experience is the sunset paddleboard ride, which offers a view of the red evening sky.

■A picnic on the Han River: Tubester at Some Sevit
If you want to enjoy the Han River at a more relaxed pace, Tubester at Some Sevit is a perfect choice. It is an experience program in which visitors drive a large tube-shaped boat themselves and drift slowly along the Han River, making it ideal for spending private time with family, a partner or friends.
Tubester's appeal lies in the chance to take in the night view around Banpo Bridge and the Han River glowing in the sunset from the water. A large table is set up in the center of the boat, so visitors can bring homemade kimbap, sandwiches or fried chicken and enjoy a picnic. Up to six people can board, and anyone can operate it after learning a few simple controls. Life jackets are mandatory, and alcohol is strictly prohibited.
■Wakeboarding in Apgujeong and yacht cruises in Jamwon
Jamwon Hangang Park offers two very different charms on either side of Hannam Bridge. Visitors can enjoy wakeboarding and water skiing in the Apgujeong District, while yachts are available in the Jamwon District, allowing them to experience a different side of the Han River depending on their taste.
The Apgujeong District is a wakeboarding hotspot where riders can enjoy speed by riding the artificial waves created by boats. A variety of lessons for beginners are also offered. In contrast, the Jamwon District has yachts moored along the river, creating an exotic and leisurely atmosphere. From public tours to private tours and yacht stays, there are many options, and sailing at sunset, when the river is bathed in golden light, is considered the most popular course.

■For first-time water sports visitors, head to Nanji Hangang Park
For those trying water sports for the first time, the Seoul Water Leisure Sports Center at Nanji Hangang Park is a good recommendation. It is a comprehensive water leisure facility with the largest mooring area in Seoul, offering instruction from professional coaches and a range of experience programs.
The waters around Nanji are relatively calm, so even beginners can enjoy them without much pressure. Visitors can try kayaking, paddleboarding, keelboats and dinghy yachts, and many families with children also come here. The cafe on the second floor of the center offers a place to rest while taking in the Han River view through its floor-to-ceiling windows, making it a perfect healing spot in the city. Simply sitting still and watching the water can wash away the fatigue of daily life.
■Gwanghwamun Square turns into a beach: Seoul Summer Beach
You do not have to travel far to the sea to enjoy sand and water play this summer. Seoul Summer Beach 2026 will be held at Gwanghwamun Square and Sejongno Park from the 20th to the 9th of next month.
The venue will be divided into three zones: the Water Wave Zone, the Play Wave Zone and the Play Market Zone. An 8-meter water slide, a large pool and a water bucket will be installed, and a 12-meter-diameter air dome will house a 'Sand Agit' made with sand brought in from beaches across the country, including Yangyang County, Ganghwa County, Daecheon, Busan and Gunsan. Food trucks, flea markets and other hands-on events will also be held, offering a unique summer getaway in downtown Seoul.
An official from STO said, "We prepared summer content that lets people enjoy water play, water sports and even a sandy beach in downtown Seoul." The official added, "We believe it will create special summer memories for both residents and visitors."
[email protected] Jung Soon-min Reporter