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The summer sun can make it difficult to walk around for long. But once dusk falls, step outside and you’ll discover a different side of the city. As the evening breeze drifts gently through the streets and the city lights begin to glow, Seoul’s romance awakens. From hot-air balloons and river cruises to night buses and dazzling light shows, Seoul’s nighttime adventures are full of joy.

SEOULDAL Hot-Air Balloon: A ‘Moon Landing’ Experience in Seoul

SEOULDAL, also known as ‘Seoul’s Moon’, is truly one of a kind. You can spot it from various parts of the city, impressive enough in the daytime, but at night it transforms into what looks like a luminous moon hanging in the sky. Up close, it feels as though a giant moon has landed on the banks of the Hangang River, standing tall and magnificent against a mysterious backdrop.  

Stepping into the hot-air balloon brings an even stranger and more exciting feeling. The moment it lifts off the ground there is a brief flutter of nerves, but that quickly gives way to pure fascination as the view unfolds before your eyes. The ascent doesn’t take very long for only about five minutes, but the slow and steady rise from the ground to the sky is more than enough to take in the scenery. At its highest point the breeze feels cool and refreshing, the horizon opens wide, and the Hangang River, the National Assembly, Seoul N Tower, and the skyscrapers of Yeouido all come into view at once, spreading out beneath your feet in a dazzling panorama of Seoul's nightcapes.

Editor’s Tip: If you want to ride ‘Seoul’s Moon’ at night, it is best to book in advance. Otherwise, plan to arrive early and line up. As for safety, there is nothing to worry about. The entire process is stable and secure, so you can simply enjoy the experience without.

 Yeouido-dong 2, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

 Tue–Sun 12:00–22:00 (Closed Mon; last ride 21:30)
 Line 9, National Assembly Station, Exit 3, 592m

Hangang River Starlight Cruise: Setting Sail with Wind and Song

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Seoul’s romance is by boarding the Hangang River Starlight Cruise. The gentle breeze on deck eases the heavy summer heat, and when a singer begins to perform in rhythm with the rolling waves, everyone naturally relaxes and slips into the moment.

What makes the cruise unforgettable is the view from the deck. Lights along both banks sparkle as though golden streams are flowing into the river itself, weaving a shimmering tapestry across the water. As you watch people strolling or cycling along the riverside, it feels as if you are all sharing the same night together. Moving slowly down the Hangang River, the city’s vibrance and romance pass by like scenes from a film, one after another.

The cruise makes for an ideal date for couples, but it is just as enjoyable with friends or family. No matter who you come with, you will find your own unique rhythm of nighttime travel.

 Yeouido-dong 85-1, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

 Tue–Sun 11:00–22:00; Mon 15:00–22:00 
 Line 5, Yeouinaru Station, Exit 3, 625m 

Seoul Night Tour Bus: A Moving Observatory of the City

The night tour bus is one of the best ways to see Seoul in comfort, with the whole city unfolding before you while you simply sit back and watch. The first part of the route follows the Hangang River, where the night view outside the window feels like watching a living documentary of Seoul. Brightly lit bridges line the way, high-rise buildings stretch along both banks, and neon signs flicker endlessly as the bus glides through the night. It is in this moment that the phrase “Miracle on the Hangang River” reveals itself not just as a story of economic growth, but as a symbol of the city’s enduring brilliance. Midway through, the bus stops at Seoul N Tower, one of the best spots for a complete view of Seoul at night. With the tower sparkling before you and the city spread wide beneath your feet, the sight is nothing short of breathtaking. Anyone who takes a photo here is guaranteed to capture a picture worth keeping for a lifetime.

The bus makes a special stop at Seoul N Tower—arguably the best spot to view Seoul’s skyline in all its glory. Here, you’ll capture postcard-worthy photos with the glittering city stretching beneath your feet. 

The real advantage of the tour bus is that you don’t need to worry at all about routes or directions—you simply sit back and take in the scenery. Without the need to walk, it is less tiring, and compared to the subway it carries the added pleasure of watching the city pass by outside your window. It feels like a special gift prepared just for those who want to savor Seoul at night.

Basic Information

Boarding and Ticket Exchange Location | 61-1 Taepyeong-ro 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul (in front of Koreana Hotel)

Subway Information | About 300 meters from Exit 3 of City Hall Station (Lines 1 and 2), roughly a 7-minute walk
 Subway Line 1/2, City Hall Station, Exit 3, 300m  

Cheonggyecheon Light Festival: A Quiet Escape in the Heart of the City

Cheonggyecheon always has a way of calming the heart, but at night it feels even more tranquil and romantic than during the day. As the lights along both banks flicker on one by one, you’ll see people chatting on benches, others reading books, and some simply listening quietly to the sound of flowing water. It creates a serene atmosphere, as though the noise of the city has slipped far away. Walking beneath the bridges, you’ll come across a light show. Patterns of flowers bloom one by one across the rippling water, an almost otherworldly sight that makes you feel as if you are walking down a “flower path.” It’s so enchanting that you can’t help but make a wish, letting your thoughts wander toward hopes for the future. An evening stroll along Cheonggyecheon soothes the mind and gifts you with a sense of quiet romance.

 Cheonggyecheon Gwanggyo Gallery, 9, Namdaemun-ro 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul   
 Line 1 Jonggak Station Exit 5, 235m

If Seoul’s daytime feels too hot and hectic, why not save the fun for the evening instead? Rise above the city in the “Seoul’s Moon” hot-air balloon and gaze down at the sparkling skyline, let the river breeze and music embrace you on a Hangang River cruise, relax on a tour bus while the night unfolds around you, and wander Cheonggyecheon’s illuminated paths as if walking through a trail of blossoms. Seoul’s nights are filled with charm and countless places to enjoy. On your next visit, don’t plan only for the daytime—make room for the evening too. After all, when it comes to Seoul, you can never go wrong with night tours.