Hangang River sightseeing shuttle service, known as the Hangang Haechi Car (Image provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government)
SEOUL, April 14 (Korea Bizwire) — The Seoul Metropolitan Government has announced it will expand its free Hangang River sightseeing shuttle service, known as the Hangang Haechi Car, to Nanji Hangang Park, following the success of its pilot program in Banpo Hangang Park last year.
The electric shuttles, designed with the city’s Haechi mascot, will operate in both locations from April 11 through November 30, 2025. Last year’s trial at Banpo Park, which ran from May to November, attracted more than 53,000 riders, including seniors and people with mobility challenges.
At Nanji Hangang Park, three shuttles will serve a 6.2-kilometer round-trip route connecting popular destinations such as the Hangang Boat Dock near Mangwon Bridge, Mirror Fountain, BTS Forest, water playground, Youth Square, and Nanji Camping Ground. Each vehicle seats up to 10 passengers and travels at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometers per hour.
The vehicles are equipped with air conditioning and heating, along with space for wheelchairs and strollers, aimed at improving accessibility for all visitors.
Service will operate year-round — from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays — with departures every 20 to 30 minutes depending on the day.
Meanwhile, the Banpo Park route remains unchanged from 2024, running a 7.3-kilometer loop between Dongjak Station (Exit 2), Seorae Island, Sebitseom, and Seoul Wave Art Center.
Seoul officials said the shuttle program significantly enhances access to leisure and cultural facilities along the river, especially for children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
The city plans to maintain free service through the end of 2025, after which it will evaluate rider satisfaction and operational performance to determine whether to introduce fares or expand the program further.
“We hope the expanded Haechi Car service will help transform the Hangang River into one of Seoul’s most beloved destinations for citizens and international tourists alike,” said Park Jin-young, head of the Future Han River Headquarters.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
