Seoul to turn Han River into massive, low-stakes triathlon playground

A promotional poster for MY PACE Hangang Triathlon Festival at Ttukseom Han River Park / Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government

The Han River is traditionally a place for picnics or weekend strolls, but next month, a stretch of its waters will be transformed into a sprawling, low-stakes obstacle course designed to prove that anyone can be a triathlete.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government said Wednesday that the third annual "MY PACE" Hangang Triathlon Festival will return to Ttukseom Hangang Park from June 5 to 7. Unlike the grueling, clock-watching spectacles typically associated with the sport, this three-day event is built on the premise that speed is secondary to simply showing up. Participants are encouraged to swim, cycle, and run through the course at their own speed, stripping away the pressure of rankings in favor of a collective finish line.

The centerpiece of this year’s festival is "Haechi Island," a massive floating playground named after the city’s official mascot. The installation effectively turns a portion of the river into a water-bound carnival, featuring air-bounce attractions, water trampolines and a "slippery pole" challenge. For those less inclined to enter the water, the festival offers a deep dive into K-content culture, featuring staples of the Seoul riverfront experience like "chimaek" or fried chicken and beer and instant noodles prepared at riverside kiosks.

The event is timed to coincide with "Dano," a traditional Korean midsummer holiday, and will include heritage-themed programs alongside a Han River Sports Challenge for recreational athletes. Even the youngest visitors are invited to compete in the Iron Rookie children’s triathlon, which will be staged at the Ttukseom outdoor swimming pool.

Registration for the festival’s most popular experience programs — including the signature cross-river swim for non-Koreans and a para-swimming competition — opens Wednesday at 2 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.

City officials say the goal is to reposition the river as an accessible, high-energy park for both residents and international tourists.

"We have prepared the festival so that visitors can directly experience the clean and attractive Han River," a city spokesperson said, "while enjoying a diverse program that celebrates the spirit of participation."

This article was published with the assistance of generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.