South Korean summer water recreation sees high visitor numbers

South Korean summer water recreation sites saw significant visitor numbers this season. In Jeju, approximately 1.6 million people visited the island's 12 managed beaches, marking an 11% increase from the previous year. Hamdeok Beach was the most popular destination with 700,000 visitors. The increase is attributed to early openings, enhanced safety management, and the ‘Sammu’ initiative, which focuses on eliminating accidents, unkindness, and overcharging. Jeju also introduced specialized features such as ‘Pet Beaches’ and barrier-free beaches with water wheelchairs.

In Seoul, the Han River swimming pools and water play areas attracted roughly 560,000 visitors over a 73-day period. Notably, the Yeouido and Ttukseom locations saw substantial growth, with visitor numbers rising by 58% and 36% respectively compared to last year. A significant trend was the rise of the ‘night economy,’ as approximately 23% of visitors utilized the facilities during extended evening hours. To encourage nighttime attendance, Seoul implemented DJ performances and busking, leading officials to plan an expansion of nighttime cultural programs for the coming year.