Han River to host 16-day summer festival with drone shows, concerts, and overnight drama viewing

The Han River in Seoul is set to transform into a vibrant summer festival hub with the "2026 Hangang Festival_Summer," running from August 1st to 16th. This event promises a wide array of activities, from spectacular drone shows on the water to music concerts enjoyed while swimming, and even overnight drama marathons.

Organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government under the theme "A Close and Certain Summer Retreat, Cool Hangang," the festival will unfold across nine Hangang parks and surrounding waters. A total of 16 distinct programs are planned, offering entertainment from day to night. Highlights include the "Hangang Summer Music Picnic" at Yanghwa Hangang Park, featuring a first-ever water drone show with 25 drones performing to jazz and K-pop. The "Hangang Music Pongdang" at Nanji Water Park will allow attendees to enjoy concerts, including performances by rapper Sleepy and the band Pentacle, while swimming.

For those seeking a unique overnight experience, "Hangang Overnight: Night Hangang ON" at Mangwon Hangang Park offers a chance to watch the drama "Coffee Prince" and enjoy various amenities. The festival also includes a "Silent DJ Party" at Yeouido Hangang Park, where participants dance with wireless headphones, and a "Hangang Eolssu Pongdang" featuring a tightrope walking performance. Additionally, a "My Own Hangang Boat Race" will take place at Jamsil Hangang Park, where participants race boats they have built themselves.

Seoul officials anticipate a large turnout and are encouraging the use of public transportation. Park Jin-young, head of the Future Hangang Headquarters, expressed hope that the festival will not only provide enjoyment for citizens but also stimulate the local economy by driving consumption in surrounding commercial areas.

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Citizens can enjoy the Hangang from day to night this summer, and consumption at Hangang will lead to the revitalization of the local economy.