Seoul’s Han River isn’t a river you just look at from a bridge. It cuts straight across the whole city, wide and lined with parks on both banks. Compared with rivers like the Thames, the Seine or the Hudson, people here use it far more for running, picnics and evening walks. The bike path runs right alongside the running path for much of the way, so it’s easy to hop on and ride.
On the river, we often see visitors riding Ttareungi (따릉이), Seoul’s public bike-share. Stations are everywhere, renting is simple, and English support is available through the Dasan Call Center (120) from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., so it works just as well for a first-time visitor as for someone who just moved to Seoul.
What is Ttareungi?
Ttareungi is Seoul’s unmanned public bike system. You rent through the “Seoul Bike” app by scanning the QR code on the bike, and you return it to any station. Stations are spread across the city, including many near subway stops and along the Han River parks.
How much does it cost?
- 1-hour pass: ₩1,000 (about $0.75)
- 2-hour pass: ₩2,000 (about $1.50)
- 1-day pass: ₩5,000 (about $3.70), with unlimited 1-hour rides within 24 hours
Dollar amounts are approximate, based on an exchange rate of about ₩1,350 per US dollar as of October 2026.
How to rent as a visitor
- Download the Seoul Bike app and tap “Foreigner.”
- Buy a pass. Overseas Visa, Mastercard and JCB cards are generally accepted, but some cards occasionally get errors, so try it before you head out.
- Find a nearby station and scan the QR code on the bike.
- Ride, then return it to any station and push the lock until it clicks.
If the bike has a flat tire or another problem, report it as broken in the app and rent another one.
The 1-hour rule
Even with a 1-day pass, each ride is limited to one hour. Return the bike at a station, then re-rent. Plan your route so you pass a station about every 50 minutes.
Where to ride
The bike path follows the river on both banks, separated from the running lane. For route ideas by area, see our Han River running routes guide. The same parks (Yeouido, Banpo, Ttukseom, Jamsil) work well for cycling too.
When to ride (and when not to)
Avoid weekday commute hours. Office workers use Ttareungi to get to and from work, so stations near subway stops and business areas can be almost empty of bikes in the morning and early evening. Mid-morning, early afternoon, weekends and late evenings are much easier. Check bike availability at your station in the app before you walk over.
Practical tips
- Avoid weekday commute hours, when stations near offices and subway stops run out of bikes
- Check bike availability at the station in the app before heading out
- Inspect the bike before riding (tires, seat height, brakes)
- Stay in the bike lane and keep right so faster riders can pass
- Bring water, since shade along the river path is limited
- Convenience stores (CU, GS25) near the river parks are good for snacks, water and instant ramyeon
FAQ
Can foreigners use Ttareungi?
Yes. Use the “Foreigner” option in the Seoul Bike app to buy a pass.
Is there English support?
Yes. The Dasan Call Center (120) offers English service from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Can I keep one bike all day?
Not on the 1-hour and 2-hour passes. Return it at a station and re-rent.
When is the best time to ride?
Outside weekday commute hours. Early afternoon and weekends are easier for finding a bike.
Is it good for beginners?
Yes. The riverside paths are flat, paved and separated from the running lane.
This guide reflects information checked in October 2026. Prices, payment options and station availability can change, so check the app before you go.
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