The summer season in Seoul is often a hot and humid time which can get a little overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to stay cool during summer in Korea’s capital.
Swimming pools are nearly synonymous with summer and in Seoul, the city operates eight public Han River swimming pools in all. Yanghwa, Yeouido, Jamwon, Jamsil are just some of these public pools which all vary a bit in size and offerings. The public pools are open until 5 PM every day and cost only 3 thousand, 4 thousand, and 5 thousand won respectively for infants, kids, and adults.

If you want to enjoy access to more private pools with a luxurious edge the outdoor pools at the Grand Hyatt, the Banyan Tree Club & Spa, and the Shilla are among the best in quality and peace but are only open to either hotel guests or paid members. Hotels with outdoor pools and open to outside guests and non/members (though with paid access) include the pools at the W Seoul Walkerhill and Sheraton Grand Walkerhill, the Hamilton Hotel, and the Imperial Palace hotels. However, do note that some of them may have restrictions such as age limits so call ahead!
Other ways to cool off include the public fountains by Gwanghwamun Square and the Cheonggyecheon Stream which are popular all summer-long for their cooling relief. On the Han River, you can take the Hangang River Ferry or even rent a yacht or sailboat at the Seoul Marina. For a more affordable option, check out the floating tubesters at the floating islands of Some Sevit. These floating round boats are equipped with a small motor and table making it a great and fun way to enjoy a picnic with friends and family on river for a low fee. If you enjoy music, the Floating Stage in Banpo Hangang Park offers regular performances and mini concerts in the evenings to enjoy.

Few things say “summer” like a good blockbuster movie and for cinephiles, Seoul has a number of unique spaces to catch a flick in memorable ways. The Lotte Cinema at the Lotte World Tower in Jamsil has the Super Plex G, which has been certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest screen. If you’re looking for a luxurious movie experience, theaters like the Megabox Boutique M in Coex and Gold Class at the CGV in Wangsimni offer amenities like plush seats, premium snacks, and other perks. Couples can enjoy special private sofa seats for couples at Sweetbox theaters at CGV theaters in Myeongdong, Gangnam, Yongsan, and other locations.

Visitors can also find refuge from the heat at one of Seoul’s many indoor shopping malls such as Coex, Time Square, IFC, and Lotte Mall while book lovers can do the same while cozying up to a good book at the Seoul City Hall library. Seoul’s many museums are also a great way to beat the heat while enjoying a bit of culture. Check my previous edition of the best museums in Seoul to find a museum for you!

Last but not least, Seoul has a number of fun festivals that will take place this summer for some cool revelry. The Water Bomb Festival will take place on July 30 at the Jamsil Olympic Stadium where you can join thousands of others in a major water fight and dance and enjoy live music! Another festival is the annual month-long Seoul Summer Sale which will take place during the entire month of July this year. Check out the Visit Seoul homepage at www.visitseoul.net to see all the excellent deals for shopping, hotels, restaurants, and more!