The Han River in Seoul is famous for its numerous bridges, each with unique designs and functions. Among them, the Swing Bridge (회전교) and Love Bridge (사랑의 다리) are particularly interesting. Here’s what you need to know:
Location: Near Nodeul Island (노들섬) on the Han River.
History: Built in 1937 during the Japanese colonial period, it was originally a railway swing bridge that rotated to allow ships to pass.
Function: It could pivot 90 degrees horizontally to make way for boats, a rare feature in Korea.
Current Status: No longer operational as a swing bridge but remains a historical landmark. It is now part of a pedestrian-friendly area after renovations.
Location: Connects Nodeul Island (노들섬) to the south bank of the Han River (near Ichon Hangang Park).
Design: A modern pedestrian bridge known for its romantic ambiance, often decorated with love-themed art and lights.
Features:
Offers scenic views of the Han River and nearby bridges like Banpo Bridge.
Popular for couples, with “love locks” sometimes attached to railings (though this is discouraged for safety reasons).
Part of the Nodeul Island development project, which includes cultural spaces and parks.
Access: Easily reachable from Nodeul Station (노들역) or by walking along the Han River trails.
Banpo Bridge (반포대교): Famous for its Moonlight Rainbow Fountain (world’s longest bridge fountain).
Mapo Bridge (마포대교): Known for its LED light displays and suicide prevention messages.
Seongsan Bridge (성산대교): Offers a great view of the city skyline.
Best Time: Evenings for illuminated bridges, especially Banpo’s fountain show.
How to Explore: Rent a bike along the Han River or take a Han River cruise for a unique perspective.
To get to the Han River Swing Bridge (흔들다리) and Love Bridge (러브브릿지) in Seoul, you can follow these directions:
Both bridges are located near Nodeul Island (노들섬) on the Han River, close to Hangangjin Station (한강진역) and Ichon Hangang Park (이촌한강공원).
To Swing Bridge (흔들다리):
Take Line 4 (Blue Line) to Ichon Station (이촌역, Exit 2).
Walk toward Ichon Hangang Park (~10 min).
The Swing Bridge connects Nodeul Island to the park.
To Love Bridge (러브브릿지):
Take Line 6 (Brown Line) to Hangangjin Station (한강진역, Exit 2).
Walk toward Nodeul Island (~5–10 min).
The Love Bridge is near the entrance to the island.
Nodeul Island (노들섬) Bus Stop:
Blue Bus: 400, 405
Green Bus: 6211, 2016, 2222
Get off at Nodeul Island and walk toward the bridges.
Address for Navigation:
Nodeul Island (노들섬): 445 Nodeul-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Parking: Available on Nodeul Island (paid parking).
The Swing Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge that gently sways as you walk.
The Love Bridge is known for romantic walks and night views of the Han River.
Best visited in the evening for beautiful Han River lights.
Visiting the Han River bridges, especially the Swing Bridge (Seonyugyo) and Love Bridge (Nodeul Bridge or Bamseom Bridge), offers a mix of scenic views, romantic walks, and fun activities. Here’s what you can do at each:
📍 Location: Near Yeouido Hangang Park (Yeouinaru Station, Line 5)
✨ Highlights:
Walking & Photography: The bridge connects Yeouido and Nodeul Island, offering stunning views of the Han River, especially at sunset.
LED Light Show: At night, the bridge lights up with colorful LED displays.
Yeouido Hangang Park: Rent a bike, have a picnic, or relax by the river.
Nearby Attractions:
63 Building (iconic gold skyscraper with an observation deck)
Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (if visiting in April)
📍 Location: Near Nodeul Island (Noryangjin Station, Line 1/9)
💖 Why It’s Called “Love Bridge”:
Couples attach love locks (available for purchase nearby).
Romantic night views of the Han River and Seoul’s skyline.
🎶 What to Do:
Nodeul Island (Nodeulseom): A cultural space with cafes, live music, and exhibitions.
Night Walk: The bridge is beautifully lit, perfect for evening strolls.
Nearby Attractions:
Noryangjin Fish Market (try fresh seafood)
Seoul National Cemetery Park (scenic walking trails)
🌉 Banpo Bridge (Moonlight Rainbow Fountain): Evening light & water show (Apr–Oct).
🌉 Mapo Bridge: Famous for its “Bridge of Life” suicide prevention messages.
🌉 Jamsu Bridge: Appears to “sink” when water levels rise (next to Banpo Bridge).
✅ Best Time: Sunset or evening for the best views.
✅ Transport: Rent a bike (available at Hangang Parks) or take a Han River cruise.
✅ Food: Grab chimaek (fried chicken & beer) from a convenience store and picnic by the river.
Here are some useful tips for visiting the Han River Swing Bridge (열수교) and Love Bridge (Seonyudo Park area) in Seoul:
Location: Near Nodeul Island (Nodeulseom) and Ichon Hangang Park.
Best Time to Visit:
Daytime: Great for clear views of the Han River.
Evening/Night: The bridge is beautifully lit, offering a romantic atmosphere.
Swing Bridge Mechanism:
It occasionally rotates (usually scheduled, not frequent). Check in advance if you want to see it in action.
Nearby Attractions:
Nodeul Island (노들섬): A cultural space with cafes and events.
Ichon Hangang Park: Perfect for picnics and cycling.
Transport:
Subway: Ichon Station (Line 4, Gyeongui-Jungang Line), then a short walk.
Buses: Various routes stop near Hangang Park.
Location: Near Seonyudo Park (선유도 공원), an eco-park built on a former water filtration plant.
Best Time to Visit:
Sunset: Stunning views over the Han River.
Night: The bridge has love locks and LED lights.
Romantic Spot:
Couples often attach love locks (bring your own or buy nearby).
Nearby Attractions:
Seonyudo Park: A unique park with gardens and walking trails.
Yanghwa Hangang Park: Great for biking and riverside walks.
Transport:
Subway: Dangsan Station (Line 2, 9), then walk (~15 min).
Buses: Stop near Seonyudo Park.
Bike Rentals: Rent a bike at Hangang Park and ride along the river.
Picnics: Convenience stores near Hangang Parks sell snacks and ramen.
Seasonal Events:
Summer: Outdoor concerts, fireworks.
Spring/Fall: Perfect for walking and photography.
Weather: Evenings can be windy; bring a light jacket.
Photography: The bridges offer great skyline views, especially at golden hour.
The best time to visit the Han River Swing Bridge (Banpo Bridge) and Love Bridge (Seongsan Bridge) in Seoul depends on the experience you’re looking for:
Evening (Sunset to Night) – Best for Views & Atmosphere
Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain (Swing Bridge):
The famous light and water show runs from April to October (usually 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM, with shows every 30 mins).
Sunset (around 7 PM in summer, 5:30 PM in winter) offers a beautiful backdrop.
Love Bridge (Seongsan Bridge):
Romantic at night with city lights reflecting on the Han River.
Couples often visit in the evening for a stroll.
Early Morning (6 AM – 9 AM) – Best for Peace & Photos
Fewer crowds, great for photography.
Cooler temperatures in summer.
Spring (April – June) – Pleasant weather, cherry blossoms nearby.
Autumn (September – November) – Cool, colorful foliage.
Summer (July – August) – Warm but humid; great for night walks and festivals.
Winter (December – February) – Cold but magical with holiday lights (avoid if you dislike freezing temps).
Rainy days – The fountain show may be canceled.
Extreme cold (Jan-Feb) – Can be uncomfortably chilly for long walks.
Combine your visit with a Han River cruise or a picnic at Hangang Park.
Check the Banpo Bridge Fountain schedule (Official Seoul Tourism Site) for updates.