Travel
5 reasons to visit Seoul this summer
Haps Magazine Korea
July 15, 2025
(Photo by Pixabay. Photo courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)
Seoul in the summer is vibrant, energetic, and full of surprises. From cultural festivals and outdoor activities to late-night markets and cool escapes, South Korea’s capital offers something for every kind of traveler.
Here are five reasons to make Seoul your summer destination.
1. Night Markets and Street Food Come Alive
Summer evenings in Seoul are best spent wandering the bustling night markets. Places like Dongdaemun Night Market and Bamdokkaebi Market by the Han River come to life after sundown, offering everything from tteokbokki and grilled seafood to handmade crafts and live performances. The warm nights and buzzing energy turn simple street food into a memorable dining experience.
2. Han River Activities and Relaxation The Han River is at its most active in summer. Locals flock to riverside parks for picnics, bike rides, and water sports. You can rent a paddleboard, join a river cruise, or just lay back with some fried chicken and beer while watching the sunset. Parks like Yeouido Hangang Park and Banpo Hangang Park also host open-air movies and live music on weekends.
3. Escape the Heat in Palaces and Museums When the midday sun gets intense, Seoul’s historical sites and air-conditioned museums offer a cool retreat. Explore the shade-covered grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace in traditional hanbok (often free to rent), or duck into modern museums like the National Museum of Korea or Leeum Museum of Art. It’s a relaxing way to soak up culture and history.
4. Summer Festivals and Concerts Seoul’s cultural calendar is packed in the summer. Events like the Seoul Fringe Festival, Waterbomb Festival (a massive outdoor music and water fight event), and various K-pop concerts draw international crowds. Whether you’re into indie performances or large-scale festivals, summer is prime time for entertainment.
5. Seasonal Flavors and Cafés Summer means seasonal menus at Seoul’s hundreds of cafés and dessert shops. Popular treats include bingsu (Korean shaved ice), fruit-themed drinks, and refreshing teas. Trendy neighborhoods like Ikseon-dong, Seongsu, and Yeonnam-dong are perfect for café hopping and snapping photos in creatively styled interiors.
While summer can be humid, lightweight clothing, portable fans, and the city’s excellent public transport system make exploring manageable. Add in the late sunsets and friendly locals, and you’ll find Seoul is a city that doesn’t slow down, even in the heat.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveler, Seoul’s summer energy makes it a season worth experiencing.