Seoul is looking to extend its tourism day beyond sunset, unveiling a five-year plan to expand nighttime attractions, sports and cultural activities, while enhancing transport and safety measures across the capital.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) said the ‘Seoul-style nighttime economy’ strategy – which begins from 6pm to 6am the next day – is not about extending business hours or encouraging people to spend more late at night.
Instead, international visitors are inspired to stay later and longer in Seoul with the new things discovered, ultimately driving more spending in local neighborhoods.
Within five years, the SMG aims to generate KRW 5 trillion in additional annual nighttime spending, attract 30 million international visitors, and raise the share of nighttime sales in small businesses’ total sales to 50%.
The night comes alive
The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Namsan Mountain, Gwanghwamun, and the Hangang River will be developed as major nighttime hubs.
Initiatives span fashion, design, food, and shopping, while nature spots will be turned into scenic trails.
Namsan Mountain will additionally be linked directly from Myeong-dong, allowing tourists to move from shopping to nature in a single tourism route.
At Gwanghwamun, outdoor libraries and street performances will also be expanded.
Seoul wants the evening to become another part of the itinerary, rather than the end of it. Photo Credit: Seoul Metropolitan Government
Meanwhile, the Hangang River will be developed into a year-round nighttime destination by introducing camping nights, drone light shows and the development of a new waterfront destination along the river in 2027.
Traditionally nature driven experiences will also be woven in.
This includes nighttime mountain hikes, while participants of sporting events and festivals will be encouraged to explore nearby traditional markets and local businesses.
Safe play at night
The SMG has indicated that safety, transport and cleanliness will be an integral part of the ‘Seoul-style nighttime economy’ strategy.
Starting October, late-night “Firefly Buses” will connect major nighttime destinations – including Hongdae, Gwanghwamun, DDP, Myeong-dong, and Gangnam – with subway stations, complementing the existing late-night N buses.
Major nighttime hubs with high foot traffic will be designated as intensive management zones, where AI-powered CCTV systems will monitor crowd density and congestion in real time. Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency officers will be deployed in popular areas.
A 150-member mobile cleaning team will also be deployed to areas with heavy nighttime foot traffic, to ensure clean mornings.
Seoul has also expanded nighttime services on the Hangang Bus, giving visitors another way to experience the river after dark. The city says the service continues to attract international visitors, particularly during the summer, for its river views and cooler breeze.