On my last trip to Seoul, my friend and I were lucky enough to catch the final day of the Car-Free Jamsugyo Bridge Festival. This annual event turns the Jamsugyo Bridge into a massive pedestrian zone, connecting Banpo Hangang Park to Seobinggo-dong, with food stalls, performances, and themed zones spread out along the river. Since it was the closing day, the atmosphere felt extra festive, with more people gathering to enjoy the last moments of this eight-week celebration.
One of my favorite parts was the food truck area, which had a wide variety of options. We wandered through the rows of trucks, checking out everything from Korean street food to international bites. After grabbing something to eat, we found a spot to sit and enjoy our meal while watching people pass by. It felt like the perfect mix of a picnic and a night market.
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| we got pizza, tacos, and fruit sodas |
Aside from the food, we browsed some of the shops and pop-ups set up along the bridge. There was a good mix of local products, crafts, and little souvenirs. It was fun just strolling along and seeing the different setups, with the Hangang River views on both sides making the experience even better.
The highlight of the evening was the closing performance, which included a set by the Navy Band followed by a concert from a popular group. The crowd was buzzing with energy, and the music against the backdrop of the Hangang felt like the perfect way to wrap up the event. It was lively, communal, and a side of Seoul that felt very different from the usual tourist spots.
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| Haechi - the Seoul tourism icon |
The festival has since wrapped up, but I’m glad I stumbled on it. I actually found out about it through TikTok, which just goes to show how useful social media can be when you’re traveling. If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, it’s always worth checking platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok for seasonal events — they’re a great way to experience the city beyond the usual sights.
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