Parks #14 in Seocho District

Seorae Island

4.4 · 767 reviews
A quiet and scenic nature retreat within the bustling city.
Seorae Island, 1335-1 Banpo-dong, Seocho District, Seoul, South Korea
Interesting facts
1

The island was formed by connecting sandbars to create a recreational space for Seoul residents.

2

It covers an area of approximately 22,000 square meters.

3

The island is specifically designed to function as an ecological corridor, attracting migratory birds along the Han River.

4

It is a primary venue for the annual Seorae Island Canola Flower Festival held every spring.

Overview

Seorae Island is a man-made artificial island situated in the middle of the Han River, connected to the Banpo Hangang Park by three pedestrian bridges. It was created during the Han River Comprehensive Development Project between 1980 and 1986. The island serves as a green urban oasis and is famous for its seasonal flower festivals. During spring, the island is covered in canola flowers, while autumn sees it blanketed with buckwheat and cosmos. The landscape features walking paths, wooden benches, and mature willow trees providing natural shade. It functions as a public park space within the larger Banpo Hangang Park infrastructure. The island offers panoramic views of the Seoul skyline, including the N Seoul Tower and various Han River bridges. It is a popular spot for professional photographers and picnickers alike.

Photo spot

The pedestrian bridge leading to the island offers the best elevated angle of the flower fields with the city skyline in the background.

Insider tips

Bring a portable mat for picnicking as the grass is the primary seating area.

Carry drinking water and snacks, as there are limited facilities directly on the island compared to the main riverfront park.

Check the local bloom status before visiting, as the island is sometimes closed during flower planting or cultivation periods.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to access the island by watercraft or off-path riverbank areas; only use the marked bridges.

Good to know

The island may be temporarily inaccessible during the off-season or during intensive flower planting phases when maintenance is ongoing.

Etiquette

Do not step into the flower beds for photography; stay on designated walking paths.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Mid-spring for the canola flower bloom or mid-autumn for the buckwheat and cosmos fields.
Address
Seorae Island, 1335-1 Banpo-dong, Seocho District, Seoul, South Korea
37.508, 126.990
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasLimited natural shade provided by mature willow trees; scattered wooden benches available.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-spring for the canola flower bloom or mid-autumn for the buckwheat and cosmos fields..

The pedestrian bridge leading to the island offers the best elevated angle of the flower fields with the city skyline in the background.

Close by you'll find National Museum of Korea, Banpo Hangang Park, N Seoul Tower.

South Korea

About Seocho District