NEWS: Seoul Unveils Five-Year Plan to Expand Nighttime Tourism
Seoul is expanding its nighttime tourism offerings under a new five-year strategy aimed at encouraging international visitors to explore and spend more time in the city after sunset.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) said its new “Seoul-style nighttime economy” strategy will focus on activities and experiences between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., while improving transportation, safety and cleanliness in major nighttime destinations.
Rather than simply extending business hours, the initiative seeks to create more nighttime attractions that encourage visitors to stay longer and discover local neighborhoods.
Over the next five years, Seoul aims to generate KRW 5 trillion in additional annual nighttime spending, attract 30 million international visitors, and increase nighttime sales to account for 50% of total sales among small businesses.
Major nighttime destinations
The city plans to develop Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Namsan Mountain, Gwanghwamun and the Hangang River as key nighttime tourism hubs.
Planned attractions will include fashion, design, food and shopping experiences, along with scenic nighttime trails in natural areas. Namsan Mountain will also be connected more directly to Myeong-dong, creating a route that combines shopping and nature.
At Gwanghwamun, the city plans to expand outdoor libraries and street performances, giving visitors additional cultural activities during the evening.
The Hangang River will also be developed as a year-round nighttime destination. Plans include camping nights, drone light shows and a new waterfront destination scheduled for development in 2027.
Nighttime mountain hikes and other outdoor experiences will form part of the strategy, while visitors attending sports events and festivals will be encouraged to explore traditional markets and local businesses nearby.
Expanded transportation and safety measures
Transportation and public safety will be central to Seoul's nighttime tourism plans.
Beginning in October, late-night “Firefly Buses” will connect major nighttime destinations, including Hongdae, Gwanghwamun, DDP, Myeong-dong and Gangnam, with subway stations. The service will complement Seoul's existing late-night N buses.
High-traffic nighttime areas will also be designated as intensive management zones. AI-powered CCTV systems will monitor crowd density and congestion in real time, while Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency officers will be deployed in popular areas.
To maintain cleanliness, a 150-member mobile cleaning team will operate in locations experiencing heavy nighttime foot traffic.
The city has also expanded nighttime services on the Hangang Bus, providing visitors with another way to experience the river after dark. Seoul said the service has continued to attract international visitors, particularly during the summer months, when passengers can enjoy nighttime river views and cooler temperatures.
Through the five-year strategy, Seoul aims to make nighttime activities a more integral part of the visitor experience while supporting local businesses and expanding tourism opportunities across the capital.
