Not sure where to watch Saturday's fireworks in Seoul? Here are some hidden spots.

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Not sure where to watch Saturday's fireworks in Seoul? Here are some hidden spots.

Published: 04 Oct. 2024, 17:40 Updated: 04 Oct. 2024, 17:44

2023 Seoul International Fireworks Festival [NEWS1]

As Yeouido anticipates over 1 million visitors for the Seoul International Fireworks Festival this Saturday, there are other hidden spots to enjoy the spectacle in a more tranquil setting.

The event host, Hanwha Group, recommends Ichon Han River Park in Yongsan District, central Seoul. Although the fireworks will be visible from a greater distance compared to Yeouido’s Han River Park, the smaller crowds will offer more peaceful viewing.

Another great viewing spot is Sayookshin Park, located in Noryangjin-dong in Dongjak District. This elevated park overlooks the Han River, offering a beautiful view of the fireworks.

Noryangjin Soccer Field, just a two-minute walk from Noryangjin Station, is also a popular choice. Its spacious grass field allows visitors to spread out a mat and enjoy the show comfortably.

Adjacent to the soccer field is the Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, a favored spot among locals. Some individuals set up tents the day before the festival to secure their places. Here, individuals can savor fresh seafood and fried foods from the market while enjoying the fireworks.

Park Il-ha, head of Dongjak District Office, center, at Noryangjin Soccer Field with residents on Sept. 21. [DONGJAK DISTRICT]

For a closer view of the fireworks, individuals can head to Seonyudo Park, a small island located in the heart of Seoul along the Han River. Situated near Yeouido, the park offers an excellent view of the fireworks.

Seonyudo Park [JOONGANG ILBO]

The annual festival attracts around 1 million people every year. This year marks the 20th edition of the event, and the fireworks will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday and last about 90 minutes.

This year’s festival will feature fireworks displays from three participating countries —Korea, the United States and Japan — under the theme “Light Up Your Dream.”

The Japanese team Hibikiya Omagari Fireworks will first perform a 15-minute set titled “The Hanabi” at 7:20 p.m. The U.S.-based fireworks team Pyrospectacular will present “California Dreaming” around 7:40 p.m., followed by Hanwha’s finale show, titled "Flashlight," at 8 p.m.

For those unable to view the show in person, the fireworks will be livestreamed on Hanwha's official YouTube channel, Hanwha TV.

BY WOO JI-WON [woo.jiwon@joongang.co.kr]