2026 Seoul Fireworks: Yanghwa Hangang Park's Underrated View

The day is finally here! The 2026 Seoul International Fireworks Festival is kicking off tonight in Yeouido!

Having managed a cozy Airbnb in the Dangsan area, 'Dangsan Cave,' for over a year, I've got some insider tips. If you're looking for a comfortable spot to watch the fireworks near Dangsan Station, I'm here to share my favorite hidden gem: Yanghwa Hangang Park.

Now, it might not be as up close and personal as a ticketed spot in Yeouido or Nodeul Island, but it's definitely less crowded. For a relaxed viewing experience near Dangsan, it's absolutely fantastic and highly recommended!

If you're like me and prefer to skip the hassle of reserving seats or buying tickets, and just want to enjoy a casual Hangang River picnic with some wine or beer while watching the fireworks light up the sky, this spot offers an incredibly charming atmosphere.

2026 Seoul International Fireworks Festival Schedule

Saturday, September 5th Fireworks Show

8:00 PM - 9:10 PM

Featuring teams from the UK, USA, and South Korea, the show runs for a total of 70 minutes.

8:00 PM - 8:15 PM: United Kingdom

8:20 PM - 8:35 PM: United States

8:40 PM - 9:10 PM: South Korea

I remember when Nodeul Island first opened and quickly became a whispered secret for fireworks viewing. Now, it's so popular they even sell tickets – and they're all sold out!

We arrived around 4 PM, spread out our picnic blanket, and enjoyed burgers, pastries, and other snacks while waiting for the fireworks. We were having a great time with our Hangang picnic...

...until the fireworks started, and we realized we could barely see anything from our spot! Haha, we didn't realize it while we were comfortably lounging.

As soon as the fireworks began and we couldn't see them, everyone started rushing up the hill in Yanghwa Hangang Park. It was a struggle to watch while standing.

Even on tiptoes from the hill, this was the best view we could get. Zooming in with the camera didn't help much.

Then, we made our way closer to the riverbank and were surprised to find it absolutely packed with people already seated!

Everyone was quietly enjoying the fireworks, lined up along the river. *A word of caution: don't stand up! I saw one guy get yelled at for standing and video calling, and he quickly sat down (lol).

This is the view of the International Fireworks Festival from Yanghwa Hangang Park's riverside.

We simply spread out some newspaper and a small box to sit on, used a nearby stone as a makeshift table, and enjoyed wine and beer in plastic wine glasses. It was absolutely wonderful.

The fireworks view from the riverbank is truly something special!

Great Restaurants & Bars Near Dangsan Station After the Fireworks

Chamsae Bangatgan is a famous spot near Dangsan Station, known for its cockles, soy sauce marinated shrimp, and pork stew. *Be warned: there's usually a crazy long wait!

If you're into a more traditional, old-school vibe, I highly recommend Sarangbang Iyagi Jumak, right next to Chamsae Bangatgan.

The original owner of Chamsae Bangatgan passed the torch and opened this smaller, pub-style spot next door. They even get their fermented skate (Hongeo) directly from family in Mokpo, and their kimchi is homemade Jeollado-style for their Hongeo Samhap (fermented skate, pork belly, and kimchi trio). Their Maesaengi Jeon (seaweed pancake) is so packed with maesaengi (seaweed) that it's actually black! Seriously!

Order some Tofu Kimchi, Hongeo Samhap, and Maesaengi Jeon with a glass of makgeolli (Korean rice wine) – pure bliss! Cheers!

Craving skewers and a cold draft beer? Head straight to Izakaya Baby Dangsan Main Branch, located right in front of Dangsan Station Exit 3. Their draft beer is delicious, and the assorted skewers are top-notch!