Night Photography in Seonyudo Island in Seoul
Seoyundo island is usually off the grid of tourists, especially those with very limited time in Korea. But unknown to many, most of the public parks in the city are open until late at night. And if you are willing to stay late discovering more places in Seoul, this is a good candidate.
A more interesting thing about Seoyundo is that it is a small island in the middle of Han River. It actually used to be a water filtration station that serviced large sections of Seoul.
The infrastructure was closed and the government came up with a great idea to convert the place into a park for its people.
It has become an ideal open space and even a picnic area for some. But for me, it is also a perfect place for night photography!
And just like many open parks in Seoul, it feels perfectly safe to walk along its paths that are usually covered with lights. And yes, I was alone for most of the time, meeting only an occasional number of locals going around the area.
There’s even a restaurant that remains open in the night.
View of another bridge from one end of Seoyundo Island. Yup, must bring tripod.
The park has enough facilities for people who spend their time. Really impressive!
What’s really mind-blowing is that the government even built a pedestrian bridge to the island! I’m really drooling with envy here.
And while crossing the pedestrian bridge, you will be treated to a great view of the parliament building.
It is quite easy to reach Seoyundo Island. There are buses that stop in the middle of the bridge for access to the island (and also near the pedestrian bridge). Here’s a tip - download the app, google map or Naver. Just search for Seoyundo Island. Another tap on getting there should show you the bus numbers that make a stop near the island. I say, get off the big bridge, then walk towards the other end, exiting thru the pedestrian bridge.
A fair warning to those planning to bring a bike - don’t. It’s a strictly walking park. And, be sure to make a Cinderella exit before midnight (I would say max it out before 11:00 P.M. so you still have buses to get on or easily grab a taxi.