Seoul just made getting around a lot more scenic. The Hangang Bus is the city’s new public river ferry, gliding along the Han River and connecting riverside piers that are awkward to reach by subway or bus. It’s cheap, it’s fast, and it doubles as a mini river cruise — I rode it from Mangwon Pier to Yeouido in just 20 minutes. Here’s everything a traveler needs to know: how to ride, fares, routes, and tips.
Quick facts
| What | Hangang Bus — Seoul’s public river ferry |
| Routes | East Line (Jamsil–Yeouido) & West Line (Magok–Yeouido); Seoul Forest pier added in 2026 |
| Fare | Adult 3,000 won · Youth 1,800 won · Child 1,100 won |
| Payment | Transit card (T-money etc.) or Climate Card; bus/subway transfer discount applies |
| Time | Mangwon → Yeouido about 20 minutes |
| Must do | Scan the QR at your seat to check in on board |
What is the Hangang Bus?
Operated by the Seoul city government, the Hangang Bus is a public water transit service. Centered on Yeouido, the East Line runs toward Jamsil and the West Line toward Magok, stopping at riverside piers such as Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Jamwon, Oksu, Apgujeong and Jamsil. In 2026 a new Seoul Forest pier was added, tied to the Seoul International Garden Show (May–October). For visitors it’s not just transport — it’s a chance to see the city skyline from the middle of the Han River.
How to ride — just tap a transit card
The easiest way to pay is with a transit card (T-money or Cashbee). Tap it at the gate just like the subway or bus, and you even get a transfer discount. Travelers can buy and top up a T-money card at any convenience store. On-site payment is also available.
One important step: check in on board. After you sit down, scan the QR code in front of your seat. It’s a safety measure and you’ll need it when you get off, so do it as soon as you board.
Fares
| Adult | 3,000 won |
| Youth (13–18) | 1,800 won |
| Child (6–12) | 1,100 won |
| Climate Card | Accepted · transfer discount with bus/subway |
It costs about twice a normal bus ride, but the time saved and the views make it well worth it. (Fares and policies are 2026 figures and may change.)
Boarding at Mangwon Pier
Mangwon Pier sits just past Seoul Battleship Park. When it’s quiet you can simply sit and wait; when it’s busy, staff hand out numbered tickets to manage capacity (they may run out at peak times). Tap your card at the gate, wait inside, and board when the ferry arrives.
The ride — like a mini cruise
The cabin is spotless and comfortable, and the air conditioning is wonderfully strong — a lifesaver on a hot Seoul day. Staff told me the front seats have the best view, and they were right. Best of all, once you’ve done the QR check-in you can step out onto the open-air deck while the ferry is moving. Plenty of riders head outside to feel the breeze and snap photos of the skyline — with the river all around, it honestly felt more like a cruise than public transport. The trip was smooth with no motion sickness, and we reached Yeouido in about 20 minutes. Sunset sailings are especially beautiful.
Arriving at Yeouido
Yeouido’s stop is part of a bright riverside terminal building. Outside you’ll spot the curved-glass facade with shops like Starbucks and Seoul Goods; inside there’s a two-floor concourse with cafes and stores. Step out and Yeouido Park and the Han River Park are moments away, perfect for a stroll — taking the ferry over and then wandering the park makes for an easy half-day itinerary.
Right next to the ferry stop is the Seoul Cruise Terminal. If you’d like a longer, dedicated sightseeing cruise on the Han River — rather than the point-to-point Hangang Bus — this is where those boats depart, so it’s handy that the two are side by side.
Ride the East Line and you can continue toward Seoul Forest and the Garden Show.
Tips for travelers
- Scan the QR at your seat first — you need the check-in to disembark.
- Grab a front seat for the best view — board early.
- Time it for sunset for the prettiest scenery.
- On weekends/peak times, numbered tickets can run out — arrive with time to spare.
- One T-money card covers subway, bus and the Hangang Bus, with transfer discounts.
- Piers in service and timetables change by season — check the official app/site before you go.
FAQ
Is it easy for foreign visitors?
Yes. Just tap a T-money card at the gate. On-site payment is available and signs include English.
How much is it?
Adult 3,000 won, youth 1,800 won, child 1,100 won, with transfer discounts.
How long from Mangwon to Yeouido?
About 20 minutes — much faster than the roughly 1-hour subway/bus transfer.
Do I need a reservation?
No — just tap your card. At busy times, piers use numbered tickets to control capacity.
Will I get seasick?
The ride is stable and smooth; motion sickness was a non-issue.
The Hangang Bus is that rare thing — a practical way to get around that’s also a genuine sightseeing experience. If you want something a little different on your Seoul trip, hop aboard.