Hit the ice at Seoul Plaza

Seoulites will be able to enjoy one of winter’s loveliest sports in the heart of the city starting next week.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced yesterday that it will open an ice skating rink at Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall at 5:00 p.m. on Dec. 17. The open air rink will operate until Feb. 13.

Last year, ice skating buffs had to go to Gwanghwamun Plaza to glide across some ice, but the rink is now back to its former home.

The rink will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday and on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday nights, it will operate until 11:00 p.m. The fee is 1,000 won ($0.88) per hour including skate rental. Children under six are not allowed.

The first 200 to pre-register will get an hour of free skating after the opening ceremony on Nov. 17. A booking service for foreigners is also available (www.seoulskate.or.kr).

By Yoo Sun-young [enational@joongang.co.kr]