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Eating Ramen by the Han River – A Must-Do Local Experience in Seoul

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🍜 Eating Ramen by the Han River – A Must-Do Local Experience in Seoul

Seoul is packed with must-see sights and delicious food, but there's one simple activity that both locals and travelers love: eating instant ramen by the Han River.

It may sound basic — just a cup of noodles — but once you're by the riverside with the skyline in view, it becomes a full-on emotional experience. If you want to feel like a true Seoulite, this is the way to do it.

🌇 Why It’s So Special

The Han River (Hangang) is not just a river — it’s a place where Seoulites live, relax, and connect.
People come here for jogging, biking, picnics, and catching the sunset.
And right in the middle of it all is the iconic act of making and eating ramen, bought from a riverside convenience store.

It’s peaceful, nostalgic, and strangely healing.

🛒 Where to Get Your Ramen

Most major Han River parks have on-site convenience stores like GS25 or CU, offering:

  • Ramen vending or boiling machines

  • Hot water stations

  • Outdoor seating and benches

  • Side items like eggs, kimbap, beer, and snacks

🍜 Best Han River Parks to Enjoy Ramyeon in Seoul

Eating instant noodles (ramyeon) by the Han River is a beloved Seoul experience—simple, relaxing, and delicious. If you're planning to try this unique local activity, you might wonder: Which Han River park is best for enjoying a bowl of ramyeon?

Here’s a breakdown of three popular parks: Yeouido, Banpo, and Ttukseom, including their pros and cons, so you can decide which one suits your vibe best.

📍 1. Yeouido Hangang Park

✅ Pros

  • Wide open views of the river: Great for sunset watching, jogging, or relaxing with a picnic mat.

  • Plenty of convenience stores: Famous for their “ramyeon-making machines.” You’ll find everything you need—instant noodles, snacks, and even microwaves.

  • Frequent cultural events: Fireworks festivals, jazz concerts, and seasonal markets add extra fun.

❌ Cons

  • Crowded on weekends and holidays: It can be tough to find a good spot during peak hours.

  • Urban atmosphere: The nearby skyscrapers give it a more “city park” feeling than a quiet nature spot.

📍 2. Banpo Hangang Park

✅ Pros

  • Romantic night views: Home to the famous Moonlight Rainbow Fountain on Banpo Bridge—perfect for evening noodle time.

  • Shaded rest areas: Plenty of benches and space under the bridge, ideal on hot days.

  • Bike-friendly: You can rent bikes nearby and enjoy a ride before or after your meal.

❌ Cons

  • Convenience stores are more spread out: You may need to walk a bit to find ramyeon facilities.

  • Gets busy in the evening: Couples and tourists flock here for the night view.

📍 3. Ttukseom Hangang Park

✅ Pros

  • Trendy and calm: Popular among locals, especially younger crowds. Great connection to Seoul Forest and Seongsu area.

  • Deck seating by the water: Quiet riverside areas make it ideal for solo or small group hangouts.

  • Perfect for picnics and photos: A go-to spot for picnic mats, fairy lights, and chill vibes.

❌ Cons

  • Slightly less accessible: A short walk from Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7).

  • Dim lighting at night: Not the best place to stay late if you're alone.

You pick your favorite ramen (Shin Ramyun? Jin Ramen?), pay, and cook it yourself — often in a foil pot — right on the spot.

🍜 Why It Tastes Better Outdoors

There’s something magical about eating hot, spicy ramen in the open air.
With the city lights glowing, a cool breeze blowing, and friends chatting nearby, the meal feels more like a memory than just food.

Add a boiled egg, some kimbap, or a chilled drink — and you’ve got a perfect riverside meal.

📸 Capture the Moment

Locals love taking pictures while eating ramen by the river.
It’s become an Instagram favorite — especially with the foil pot, chopsticks in hand, and Seoul's skyline in the background.

Don’t forget to snap a photo or a short video. It’s one of those “only in Korea” moments.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Bring wet tissues and personal chopsticks

  • Visit before 9PM (some stores close earlier)

  • Clean up your trash properly

  • Weekdays are less crowded


You don’t need a fancy restaurant to experience Seoul.
Sometimes, the simplest moments — like a bowl of ramen by the river — become the most unforgettable.

So if you’re in Seoul, head to the Han River, grab some ramen, and enjoy your own little slice of Korean life.

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