Hello everyone! The 2025 Seoul International Fireworks Festival is just around the corner, and aren't you already excited? This year is extra special as it's being held in September for the first time in years. Whether you're a first-timer or a regular visitor, here's all the practical information you need to know, presented in a friendly way!
2025 Fireworks Festival Basic Information
When: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Where: Yeouido Hangang Park Area
Time: 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Main fireworks show: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM)
Theme: "Light Up Together"
This year is special because the festival has been moved up from the usual first week of October to September due to the Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) holiday. This is the first time in 14 years that it's being held in September!
This Year's Fireworks Show Highlights
This festival features teams from Italy, Canada, and Korea. Each team will present unique fireworks shows with their own themes.
- 7:20-7:35 Italy Team "Fiat Lux - Towards Light in Darkness"
- 7:40-7:55 Canada Team "Superheroes - Light That Protects the World"
- 8:00-8:30 Korea Team Grand Finale Show
Multimedia fireworks shows with music from each country - just thinking about it is exciting!
🎟️ How to Get Tickets
Free Viewing
- Most areas of Hangang Park are free to access
- To get a good spot, arrive before 2:00 PM
- Bring a picnic mat - it's essential!
Golden Ticket (Paid Reserved Seating)
- Limited to 800 people with special seating
- Apply through the Lifeplus Tribes app lottery
- Application period: August 27 - September 16
- Winner announcement: September 17
Golden Tickets are extremely competitive. Hundreds of thousands apply for just 800 spots - it's like winning the lottery!
Best Viewing Spots
#1 Priority: Yeouido Hangang Park Multiplaza Area
- Closest to the fireworks launch site
- But also the most crowded area
- Must secure your spot at least 4-5 hours early!
#2 Priority: Ichon Hangang Park
- Fantastic overall view from across the river
- Less crowded than Yeouido
- Great for families
#3 Priority: North End of Wonhyo Bridge
- Elevated view looking down
- Decent transportation access
Special Locations
- 63 Building Sky Lounge: Costs money but comfortable viewing
- Yeouido Apartment Rooftops: If you know residents... (but security is tight)
- Nodeul Island: General public access restricted in 2025
🚇 Transportation Info & Tips
Public Transportation (Highly Recommended!)
- Subway Line 5, Yeouinaru Station Exit 3 (5-minute walk)
- Subway Lines 5 & 9, Yeouido Station Exit 5 (25-minute walk)
⚠️ Warning: Yeouinaru Station may skip stops due to crowds!
Driving (Not Recommended)
- Yeouido-ro and Mapo Bridge → Yeouido direction completely blocked
- Parking is nearly impossible
- Getting out after the event is a nightmare...
Essential Items Checklist
Must-Have Items
- Picnic mat: You'll be sitting on cold ground for hours
- Blanket or jacket: September evenings can be quite chilly
- Snacks and drinks: Convenience stores are hard to reach
- Portable chair: Much more comfortable with back support
- Power bank: Your phone battery drains quickly from taking photos
Nice to Have
- Mask: For crowds and fine dust
- Flashlight or phone light: For moving in dark areas
- Trash bags: Clean up after yourself!
Nearby Restaurants & Cafes
Fill Up Before Going
- IFC Mall Underground Food Court: Various restaurants gathered in one place
- The Hyundai Seoul: From upscale restaurants to simple cafes
Quick Snacks
- Convenience stores in Hangang Park: A few locations but sell out quickly
- Emart24, CU: Around Yeouinaru Station
💡 Pro Tip: Bring packed lunch or convenient foods - it's the best option!
Going with Children
Recommended Locations
- Ichon Hangang Park: Less crowded than Yeouido
- Nodeul Island (limited access in 2025)
Precautions
- Earmuffs or headphones: Fireworks can be quite loud
- Child safety items: Easy to lose children in crowds
- Stroller: You can bring one, but it may be inconvenient
Accommodation Info (For Staycation Lovers!)
Hotels with Fireworks Views
- Conrad Seoul: The ultimate Han River view! But the price... 😅
- Fairmont Ambassador: Luxury at its finest
- Glad Hotel: Relatively reasonable pricing
- Kensington Hotel: Can view from rooftop
These hotels are nearly impossible to book during fireworks season. Make reservations well in advance!
Tips for Taking Instagram-Worthy Photos
Camera Settings
- Tripod: For steady night shots without shake
- Manual mode: Fireworks are difficult to capture on auto
- Continuous shooting mode: Don't miss the perfect moment
Best Photo Spots
- On Hangang Bridge: Capture the overall view
- With 63 Building background: Classic Seoul night scene
- Ichon Hangang Park: Fireworks reflected in the river
Safety & Precautions
COVID-19 Precautions
- Masks recommended
- Carry hand sanitizer
General Safety
- Drinking: Moderate consumption - getting home is challenging
- Valuables: Beware of pickpockets
- Emergencies: Know how to call 119 in advance
Transportation Safety
- Be careful not to get pushed at subway stations
- Don't run around in a hurry
Don't Miss the Side Events!
Various citizen participation events start from 1:00 PM. It would be a shame to just watch the fireworks and leave! Go early and enjoy the various programs!
Final Thoughts
The Yeouido Fireworks Festival is truly a once-a-year special experience. With good preparation, you can create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
Especially this year, being held in September, the weather should be much more pleasant. A fireworks festival with autumn vibes - doesn't that sound romantic just thinking about it?
Final reminder: There will be huge crowds, so please enjoy safely and leisurely. And don't forget to take your trash with you!
See you at Yeouido on September 27th! 🎆✨
This information was written as of September 2025 and may change depending on circumstances, so please check the official website as well! https://www.hanwhafireworks.com/
