Seoul to reopen Han River pools for summer with affordable entry, safety checks
 

Starting this week, Seoulites and visitors can once again lounge poolside with a billion-won Han River view — for just a few thousand won.

 
The city’s popular swimming pools and water play zones along the iconic river are making a splashy comeback from Friday, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government on Tuesday. More than 310,000 people visited last summer.

Six riverside aquatic facilities will open through Aug. 31, operating daily for a total of 73 days, 13 days longer than last year.

 
The facilities include swimming pools at Ttukseom, Yeouido and Jamwon Hangang Parks, and water play areas at Jamsil, Yanghwa and Nanji. The Mangwon and Gwangnaru swimming pools will remain closed this year due to ongoing construction.

 
The city classifies the facilities based on depth: areas with water deeper than 90 centimeters (3 feet) are designated as swimming pools,

Admission fees remain affordable. Swimming pool tickets cost 5,000 won ($3.70) for adults, 4,000 won for teens and 3,000 won for children. Water play zones charge 3,000 won for adults, 2,000 won for teens and 1,000 won for children. Children under the age of six can enter for free.

 
Discounts of up to 50 percent are available to certain groups, including older adults aged 65 and over; persons with severe to moderate disabilities — or, levels 1 to 3 — and one accompanying guardian; recipients of the Multi-Child Happiness Card and national merit honorees. Valid ID or certification documents are required for the discount.

 
All facilities operate daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. with no scheduled closure days. However, services may be suspended in case of poor air quality or bad weather.

 
Each venue has its own attractions. The Nanji water play zone boasts an infinity pool offering one of the closest views of the Han River. 

Source : https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-06-17/national/socialAffairs/

Comprehension

How many aquatic facilities will open this summer along the Han River?
Which two swimming pools will remain closed and why?
What are the admission fees for adults at the swimming pools?
What time do the facilities open and close each day?
Who is eligible for a 50% discount?
What is special about the Nanji water play zone?
How many days will the facilities be open this summer?
What might cause a temporary suspension of services?

Discussion

Do you like going to swimming pools or water parks? Why or why not?
What is your favorite way to cool down during the summer?
Have you ever visited the Han River? If yes, what did you do there?
Why do you think these pools are so popular in Seoul?
How important is it for cities to offer affordable public leisure spaces?
What would you bring with you for a day at the river pools?
Do you think swimming is an important skill to learn? Why?
Should children under six always be free at public places? Why or why not?
Would you rather swim in a pool or in nature (river/lake/ocean)

Vocabulary

Poolside – The area beside a swimming pool.
Iconic – Widely recognized and well-established.
Admission fee – The amount of money needed to enter a place.
Aquatic – Related to water.
Lounge – To relax in a comfortable position.
Facility – A place built for a specific purpose, like recreation.
Construction – The process of building or repairing something.
Guardian – Someone who looks after another person.
Discount – A reduction in the price.
Suspended – Temporarily stopped.