Yeouido is an artificial island on the Han River, at the heart of Seoul, concentrating Korean finance, major television networks and one of the capital's most-visited parks. Neither a typical residential neighbourhood nor a simple park, it occupies a unique position: both an economic and political centre of power, and a cherished leisure space for Seoulites on weekends. In spring, its cherry trees make it one of the city's most sought-after destinations.

Practical information at a glance

• Access: Metro line 5, Yeouinaru station (여의나루) or Yeouido station (여의도); line 9, National Assembly station (국회의사당).
• Yeouido Park: free and open access.
• Recommended duration: 2 to 3 hours for the park and riverbanks; half a day if you combine with the financial district.
• Dress code: no particular constraints.
• Accessibility: park paths and landscaped riverbanks are wheelchair-accessible.

What to see

The island is divided into several distinct zones. Yeouido Park (여의도공園) features wide paths lined with cherry trees, lawns and an artificial lake. The Han's riverbanks, redesigned as part of the Hangang Renaissance project, offer cycling paths, picnic areas and landing piers. Further north, the financial district skyline—glass towers of major banks and KBS headquarters—contrasts with the park's greenery.

History and context

Yeouido was originally a sparsely populated sandbar. In the 1960s-1970s, the Park Chung-hee government made it a symbol of modernisation: the National Assembly was relocated here in 1975, and the financial district rapidly developed around it. The large central esplanade, once a military airstrip, is now partly converted into a park.

Key highlights

Cherry blossom festival

Every year from late March to early April, the park's cherry trees and Yunjung-ro Street attract hundreds of thousands of visitors. Paths become carpeted with pink petals for one to two weeks. Arriving early in the morning helps you avoid the dense weekend crowds.

Han riverbanks

Yeouido's river park (여의도한강공원) stretches alongside the river for several kilometres. Bike rentals, sports fields, fountains and food trucks are available. In the evening, Seoulites gather here for night picnics, a well-established local tradition.

National Assembly

The green-domed building of the Korean National Assembly is visible from the park. Guided tours of the building are organised on certain days; contact the institution directly for details.

63 Building

The golden 63-storey tower, inaugurated in 1985, remains a visual landmark of the island. It houses an aquarium, wax museum and observation deck. It symbolises Korea's architectural ambition in the 1980s.

Photography tips

Morning light is ideal for photographing cherry blossoms before the crowd arrives. For the skyline reflected in the Han at night, position yourself on the riverbanks on the north side after sunset. The 63 Building offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains from its observation deck.

Location and access

Yeouido is located in Yeongdeungpo-gu district, west of Seoul, connected to the rest of the city by several bridges and two metro lines. Yeouinaru Station (line 5) drops you directly at the entrance to the river park. By bike, the island is accessible via Han cycling paths from Mapo or Banpo.

Nearby

• Banpo Park — another major Han river park, known for its illuminated fountain bridge.
• Itaewon — cosmopolitan neighbourhood to the east, accessible by metro, renowned for international restaurants.
• Mapo district — north bank of the Han, with Mangwon Market and a lively cultural scene.
• Noryangjin Fish Market — wholesale seafood market open at night, a few metro stops away.