Hi Seoul Festival kicked off Saturday for nine days of events at the Han River area, offering Seoulites the chance to cool off from the scorching heat.

The first ever Hangang Birdman Contest is to be held on Saturday and Sunday. Contestants in a variety of costumes will fly homemade gliders across the Han.

On a riverside stage, the Hangang Fantasy Show hopes to attract citizens and tourists to various performances including high-wire feats and acrobatics.

In addition, a Hangang parade and a river-crossing swimming contest will be held.