Massive Crowds Flock to Han River for Seoul Fireworks Festival

SEOUL, Oct. 7 (Korea Bizwire) – The banks of the Han River in Yeouido were already teeming with excitement by the afternoon of October 5 as throngs of eager spectators arrived early to secure prime viewing spots for the 2024 Seoul World Fireworks Festival. 

Despite the official 7 p.m. start time, families and friends flocked to the Hangang Park, undeterred by the prospect of a long wait. The influx began in the morning, with parking lots reaching capacity well before noon.

Many attendees resorted to parking at a distance and walking or using public transportation to reach the festival grounds.

The landscape of the park transformed as visitors set up tents and unfolded camping chairs, preparing for the long day ahead.

Jung Da-un, 34, who pitched a tent on the riverside deck, shared, “We parked behind the National Assembly building and walked quite a bit. Last year, we watched from Sayuksin Park, but this time we wanted a closer view.”

As the grassy areas filled up, some resourceful attendees found spots near Mapo Bridge, only to be redirected by park officials announcing that tents were permitted only in a number of designated areas like the main field. 

The festival’s allure drew visitors from far and wide. Shim Hyun-gyu, 37, who traveled from Busan, said, “We came early, unsure of the crowds. We chose a spot near restrooms based on online advice about accessibility issues later in the day.” 

With over a million visitors expected, food vendors lined the paths, offering festival favorites like beondegi (roasted silkworm pupae), cotton candy, hot dogs, and various street foods. Some merchants, anticipating the evening chill, were ready with hand warmers and blankets for sale.

Han Jung-seok, 26, who was working at a convenience store in the park, noted, “It’s not too different from a typical weekend yet, but we’ve brought in three extra part-timers for today’s special event.” 

Designated “delivery zones” saw long queues of people waiting to collect food orders, adding to the festive atmosphere. 

While excitement ran high, some visitors expressed concerns about safety and the journey home. “I’m not too worried about safety during the event, but getting home afterwards is a concern,” Jung mentioned. 

Valentin Percheron, 20, a French exchange student, shared mixed feelings: “I’ve never seen fireworks on this scale in France, so I’m excited. But as a foreigner, I’m also aware of the Itaewon tragedy, which makes me a bit nervous.” 

In response to the expected crowd of 1.07 million, authorities deployed 2,417 police officers for crowd management. The Seoul Metropolitan Government and Seoul Metro also prepared safety measures at key subway stations, with trains expected to bypass Yeouinaru Station if crowds became too large.

Image credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com