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As New Year’s Day approaches, popular sunrise locations in Korea draw crowds eager to witness the dawn of the New Year. While the sun graces the sky daily, the first sunrise of the year carries special significance. Engaging in the tradition of welcoming the sunrise entails observing the first sun on New Year's Day, extending well wishes to all, and expressing hopes for the upcoming year. 

In anticipation of the approaching New Year, here is an overview of rather unknown sunrise spots close to the heart of Seoul that offer easy accessibility and present breathtaking views of the sunrise.

Glorious Sunrise Horizon

Haneul Park, a renowned ecological park in Seoul, is celebrated for its silver grass festival in the fall, and a notable sunrise destination appealing to families and couples. Haneul Park provides a breathtaking panorama of Seoul's notable landmarks, such as Namsan Mountain, the 63 Square to the east, and the Hangang River to the south. Those who visit can relish the sunrise surrounded by these iconic sights, making for an unforgettable experience on New Year’s Day. It is advised to enjoy the sunrise from the highest point of the Haneul Stairway, where an expansive and unobstructed view of the Seoul cityscape unfolds, creating a splendid backdrop for the rising sun.

Photo sources: @zal_zzic_chan_a

Be ready for a climb of about 300 stairs to catch the sunrise, so be sure to begin a little early. For New Year's Day, it is suggested to take public transportation if available. If you decide to drive, expect potential crowding at the Haneul Park parking lot; park at the Pyeonghwa Park parking lot instead and walk to the sunrise viewing spot. There are numerous places of interest to experience Seoul's nature and culture around Haneul Park, such as Children's Forest, Nanjicheon Park, Oil Tank Culture Park, DMC Cultural Museum, and Mangwon Market. Following the sunrise, embark on a rewarding New Year's journey in Seoul, exploring the diverse offerings in Mapo-gu.

• ﹘︎Address : 95, Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Sangam-dong)

• ﹘︎Directions : Subway Line 6, World Cup Stadium Station, Exit 1

Hangang Park Sunrise

Experience the allure of a stunning sunrise – no need to climb heights! Seonyudo Park, Korea's pioneer in eco-friendly parks, invites you to revel in its captivating panoramas along the Hangang River. Everyone can effortlessly embrace the magic of the New Year's sunrise on Seonyu Bridge, the gateway to Seonyudo Park. Framed by the Hangang River's enchanting panorama, the sunrise gracefully emerging between the twin towers of Yeouido presents an exclusive spectacle, distinct from traditional elevated viewpoints. Don't miss the mesmerizing scene of the Hangang River, awash in the gradual transition from red to orange as the sun ascends.

For a safe celebration of the New Year's sunrise, entry to Seonyu Bridge will be limited, with control measures starting at 6 a.m. on January 1st. Anyone wishing to see the sunrise from Seonyudo Bridge should plan accordingly. In case of restrictions, you can still see the sunrise from nearby Hangang  Parks. However, note that the Hangang River area might feel colder due to brisk winds.

Begin the exceptional year of 2024 at Seonyudo Park, renowned for its stunning sunsets. The park's surroundings offer numerous attractions, such as an eco-friendly ecological park and scenic observation decks. Also check out the Daelim Museum and Times Square, offering the chance to indulge in indoor shopping and escape the chilly winds.

Photo sources:@yongfeel  

• ﹘︎Address : 343 Seonyu-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Seonyudo Park)

• ﹘︎Directions : Subway Lines 2 and 6, Hapjeong Station, take bus 7612 or 5714

• ﹘︎Parking Information : Accessible parking / For general vehicles, please use the Yanghwa Hangang River Park 3rd Parking Lot

Sunrise over the Eastern Skyline

Eungbongsan Mountain, nicknamed “Forsythia Mountain” for its stunning forsythia blossoms in spring, has been celebrated for extraordinary views since ancient times. Legend has it that kings from the Joseon Dynasty took pleasure in hawking in this area. The Octagonal Pavilion on Eungbongsan Mountain is reachable with a short 15-minute walk from Eungbong Station on the Gyeongui-Jungang Line. While the ascent to the nearby hill is easy, the panoramic view from the Octagonal Pavilion is truly extraordinary. Commencing the New Year with a sunrise framed by Seoul's iconic bridges including Donghodaegyo Bridge, Hannamdaegyo Bridge, Seongsudaegyo Bridge, alongside landmarks, such as Ttukseom Island and Lotte Tower in the eastern part of Seoul, offers an unparalleled experience. Witness the striking sight of the sun rising amidst the pine trees surrounding Octagonal Pavilion, casting a warm reddish hue.

Every January 1st, Eungbongsan Mountain Octagonal Pavilion hosts a vibrant New Year's celebration. From pre-events to the main program, featuring New Year Drumming, New Year Performance (Popera), and Sunrise Appreciation, alongside additional attractions, such as the food market and wish tree writing,” revel in the sunrise and embrace a joyous first day of the new year with diverse activities and festivities. 

While there, why not soak in the lively ambience of Seoul's popular areas, such as Seongsu-dong and Geumho Market, conveniently situated near the eastern sunrise locale of Eungbongsan Mountain?

• ﹘︎Address : 343 Seonyu-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Seonyudo Park)

• ﹘︎Directions : Subway Line 3, Oksu Station, Exit 2

A Wondrous Quaint Sunrise

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