Cruising the Han River: A First Look at Seoul's New Han River Bus!

• 목록
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제
  • 검색

• Facebook
• Twitter

Seoul’s New River Transportation Begins

Do you ever feel bored with the same commute or weekend routine? The idea of seeing Seoul from the Han River, right in the middle of the city, already sounds refreshing.

On September 18, the Han River Bus officially began service, marking a new chapter in Seoul’s public transportation system.

I joined on its very first day, boarding at Mangwon Dock and heading toward Yeouido. The dock was crowded, filled with excitement, broadcast cameras, and curious riders.

The atmosphere felt less like a commute and more like a small festival.

Han River Bus Routes and Fare Information

The most common questions are about where the Han River Bus goes and how much it costs.

The service operates across seven docks, connecting Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Apgujeong, Oksu, Ttukseom, and Jamsil. It conveniently passes major Han River parks, making it appealing for leisure travel.

The regular fare is 3,000 won, payable with a transportation card. Riders using the Climate Companion Card can enjoy unlimited rides for an additional monthly fee, which makes frequent use more attractive.

If it is your first ride, boarding at starting points like Magok or Jamsil increases your chances of getting a seat.

Inside the Han River Bus Experience

The interior was more spacious and cleaner than expected. As a newly built vessel, everything felt modern and well maintained.

Each seat comes equipped with a life jacket and a power outlet. There is also a designated space planned for a future onboard café.

One unique feature is the QR code at each seat. By scanning it, you can complete a boarding declaration and freely move to the front deck.

Standing on the deck, feeling the cool river breeze and looking across the open Han River, it was surprising to experience this kind of calm in central Seoul.

Convenience for Bikes and Wheelchairs

Separate spaces for bicycles and wheelchairs are located at both the bow and stern of the boat.

This makes the Han River Bus especially convenient for cyclists who want to enjoy a ride along the river and return by water.

Riding Tips and Best Views on Board

The ride itself was faster than expected and remarkably stable, with minimal shaking.

The Yeouido skyline viewed from the river felt like being on a short getaway rather than inside the city.

Window seats and front-facing seats offer the best views, and taking photos from the front deck is highly recommended.

Although there were minor delays on the first day, operations are expected to stabilize. Real-time updates are available through mobility apps such as Naver Map and Kakao Map.

Public Transport or Mini Cruise?

At first, I boarded thinking of it simply as public transportation.

After the experience, it felt closer to an affordable Han River cruise than a daily commute option.

Rather than replacing the subway for rush hour, it seems best suited for leisure, tourism, dates, or relaxed weekend outings.

Seeing Seoul introduce river transportation again reminded me of ferries I once used abroad, adding to the sense of novelty.

A Fresh Way to Experience Seoul

The Han River Bus is more than a way to get from one point to another.

Viewing Seoul from the river delivers a different emotion compared to seeing it from land, slower and more reflective.

While the early days come with some confusion, expectations are high that it will become a familiar and loved part of city life.

For weekend plans, river dates, or a relaxing return after a bike ride, the Han River Bus offers something new worth experiencing.