Morré Frédérique
Editor, GSIS Newsletter

Summer in Seoul hits differently - and by “different” I mean aggressively. One day you’re enjoying iced americanos under blossoming trees, and the next you’re walking through a sauna in jeans shorts, wondering if your skin is melting off or if that’s just the humidity saying hi. If you, like me, start wilting the minute the temperature crosses 30°C, then welcome. We are now entering the “do not talk to me unless it's air-conditioned” portion of the season. But! That doesn’t mean we have to suffer. Seoul actually has a surprising number of ways to beat the heat without turning into a full-time homebody. Whether you’re looking for cool escapes, indoor adventures, or just places where your makeup won’t melt off by noon, I’ve got you. Let’s survive (and maybe even enjoy?) this sweaty season together.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

• Hangang Nanji Park Swimming pool: For only ₩3,000–5,000 per person this is a no-brainer to escape the scorching heat - but be warned, it WILL be crowded with parents and children, and there is k-pop blaring! Until the 24th of August there is also the Hangang River Festival that is happening, with a variety of events such as pool-cinema viewings, concerts, boat races and water games. More info can be found HERE.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

• TECHRUN: a more interactive game of The Floor Is Lava! Make sure to avoid the red tiles and try to beat your opponents! 

INSTAGRAM / NAVER

• REALWORLD: escape rooms / play spaces with a variety of stories, all centered around a dreamy and mysterious hotel atmosphere.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM

• SMOB: a large indoor sports and gaming space. There are more than 30 different activities, divided into zones (Basic Zone, Adventure Zone, Digital Zone, Exciting Zone).

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM

If you prefer your indoor activities a little less intense, of course there are thousands of cafés to go and spend hours, either by yourself or with friends. And HERE is an updated list of museums and cool exhibitions to visit during August as well as a LIST of art spaces and museums :) And if you are someone who enjoys crafting and DIY, definitely make sure to visit the Dongdaemun Shopping Complex. It can be a little tricky to find the first time, but just Google the Dongdaemun Market, and go to Building A, 5th floor for the accessories floor and get crafty!

Naturally, keep an eye on events that the city of Seoul organizes HERE.

And of course, don’t forget your sunscreen, your water bottle, your UV umbrella and any protective gear that you need! For every iced americano that you drink, also drink a cup of water. Stay safe and cool! :)