Most travelers want to make the most of their limited time and budget. That’s why this blog exists

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Most travelers want to plan the right itinerary using their limited time and budget wisely — dreaming of discovering a new world and enjoying the freedom of a getaway. That’s why I started this blog: to help you design a clear, realistic plan and start your Korean adventure with confidence. πŸ™️ Seeing Seoul with Fresh Eyes I was born and raised in Seoul, but after living in Canada for many years, coming back felt like stepping into a completely new world. So much had changed — new buildings, new trends, even new ways of life. As I explored the city again, this time as a returning expat, I started to understand Seoul in a different way. That’s when I decided to share my experience to help people who are visiting Korea for the first time. 🌏 Why So Many People Want to Visit Korea These days, Korea is more popular than ever, thanks to K-pop, K-dramas, and social media. People from all over the world are excited to see the places they’ve only watched on screen. But Korea isn’t just abou...
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Seasonal Travel Tips 2: August Events in Seoul

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August in Seoul is hot — but the city doesn’t slow down. In fact, it comes alive at night with riverside concerts, cultural festivals, markets, movies, and even floating swimming pools. Whether you want to relax by the Han River or dance under the stars, here are the top events to enjoy this August.

 

Seoul Metropolitan Government

1. Hangang Summer Festival 2025 (ν•œκ°•λͺ½λ•… μ—¬λ¦„μΆ•μ œ)

Dates: July 26 – August 24
Location: Yeouido, Banpo, Ttukseom, Yanghwa, and other Han River parks
Overview: Seoul’s biggest seasonal festival, offering dozens of free or low-cost events spread across the Han River. Most programs take place in the evening to beat the heat.

πŸ”Ή 2025 Highlight Programs:

  • Hangang Cinema Splash (July 26–27):
    Watch movies from the water while relaxing in a floating pool at Mangwon Hangang Park.
  • Hangang Summer Music Picnic (August 1–2):
    Evening concerts at Yanghwa Water Stage — perfect for a casual picnic.
  • Hangang Musical Splash (August 9–10):
    Poolside DJ shows and water activities at Banpo Infinity Pool.
  • Hangang Silent Disco Party (August 2, 9, 16):
    Dance to wireless music under the stars at Banpo Park.
  • Hangang Under the Bridge Film Festival (Weekends):
    Evening film screenings held under bridges at Ttukseom and Yeouido.
  • Hangang Ship Race (August 15):
    A national boat race featuring Korean flags and floating entries. Spectator-friendly.
  • Hangang Party Cruise & Fireworks (August 5, 12):
    Enjoy evening cruises with DJ sets and fireworks. Reservations required.
  • No-Sleep Weekend (August 16):
    Games, mini concerts, and storytelling sessions lasting all night.

🎫 Entry:

  • Most programs are free or under ₩5,000.
  • Some require reservation via the official Hangang Festival site.

πŸ“ How to Get There:

  • Yeouido Park → Subway Line 5, Yeouinaru Station
  • Banpo Park → Line 9, Express Bus Terminal Station
  • Ttukseom Park → Line 7, Ttukseom Resort Station

 

2. Bamdokkaebi Night Market

When: Fridays & Saturdays, through October
Where: Yeouido, Banpo, DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza)
Why Go: Night markets with street food, handmade goods, and live performances. Romantic and lively, especially in August evenings.
More info: blog.trazy.com/seoul-bamdokkaebi-night-market

 

3. Seoul Fringe Festival

When: Mid to late August (dates vary annually)
Where: Hongdae and Seogyo-dong
What to Expect:

  • Indie music, theater, street dance, and experimental art
  • Outdoor pop-up stages and public participation
    Perfect for those who want to experience Seoul’s youth culture.
    Festival info: wanderlog.com – Seoul in August

 

4. Seoul International Women’s Film Festival (SIWFF)

When: August 22–28 (example from 2024 schedule)
Where: CGV Yeonam, indie cinemas in Hongdae
Why Go:

  • Showcases female-directed films from Korea and abroad
  • Most films have English subtitles
    Festival site: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seoul_International_Women%27s_Film_Festival

 

5. Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival

When: August 2–4 (typical schedule)
Where: Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, Incheon
Why Go:

  • Korea’s biggest rock/electronic music festival
  • Easy day trip from Seoul (40 mins by train)
    Festival info: Pentaport Rock Festival Wikipedia

 

Seoul Metropolitan Government

6. SOS – Summer of Seoul Festival

When: Early to mid-August
Where: Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggye Plaza
Highlights:

  • Urban art exhibits
  • Hip-hop dance battles
  • Outdoor family concerts
  • Pop-up cinema and workshops
    More info: english.visitseoul.net/events

 

πŸ“Œ Where to Find Festival Updates

  • Seoul Metropolitan Government Calendar:
    english.seoul.go.kr/category/service/amusement/cultural-event
  • Visit Seoul Official:
    english.visitseoul.net/event-festival

 

🧭 Tips for Enjoying August Festivals

  • Go after 6 PM: Most events are designed for evening weather
  • Bring a mat or foldable chair for movies & music nights
  • Carry cash and a T-money card for night markets and transport
  • Some events require online reservations, especially cruises or splash events

 

πŸ—“️ Summary Table

Event

When

Where

Best For

Hangang Summer Festival

Jul 26 – Aug 24

Han River Parks

River movies, concerts, splash fun

Bamdokkaebi Night Market

Weekends

Yeouido, Banpo, DDP

Night food, crafts, skyline views

Seoul Fringe Festival

August

Hongdae / Seogyo-dong

Street performances, indie arts

SIWFF

Aug 22–28

Yeonam / Hongdae cinemas

Korean & global women-led films

Pentaport Rock Festival

Aug 2–4 (est.)

Incheon

Day trip for rock and EDM lovers

SOS Festival

Early–Mid August

Seoul Plaza, Cheonggyecheon

Urban art, music, and family-friendly events

 

Seoul’s August heat is no reason to stay indoors. With riverside festivals, silent discos, boat parties, and outdoor movies, summer in the city becomes an unforgettable cultural experience. Plan wisely, stay cool, and dive into Seoul’s summer vibe!

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