Recommended Sunrise Spots and Events in Seoul for 2026! The Year of the Red Horse

To celebrate 2026, the Year of the Red Horse (Byeong-o), we've compiled information on 16 sunrise spots in Seoul, along with official event information by district. From downtown areas to parks like Inwangsan Mountain, Eungbongsan Mountain, and World Cup Park, check them out at a glance.

 

1. What will 2026 be like? The Year of the Red Horse, Byung-o (the Year of the Red Horse).

The year 2026 is the year of Byung-o (丙午年), commonly known as the 'Year of the Red Horse'.

 

 

Horses have long been known as animals symbolizing vitality, challenge, and progress. Sunrise events are particularly popular, signifying the beginning of a new year as a time to set goals and renew your resolve while watching the sunrise.

 

Seoul City will hold official sunrise events at mountains and parks in each autonomous district on January 1, 2026.

2. What time does the sunrise occur in Seoul?

Based on the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, Korea's leading astronomical and space research institute
The expected sunrise time in Seoul on January 1, 2026 is 7:47 AM.

 

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before sunrise, as local events are held around sunrise.

3. 7 Places to Enjoy the Sunrise in Seoul's City Center

These are places where you can watch the sunrise in the middle of the city without having to go far.

 

Inwangsan (Cheongun Park, Cheongwadae Fountain Square, Daegogak)
The 25th Inwangsan Sunrise Festival in Jongno-gu will feature a traditional percussion performance, a Nanta and vocal folk song performance, and a New Year's wish-writing event.
After the sunrise, you will move to the Blue House fountain square and experience beating the Daegogak drum.

 

Eungbongsan Mountain (Palgakjeong)
This is a famous spot where you can enjoy the sunrise along the Han River.
Simple but enjoyable events such as New Year's greetings, drumming, and writing wishes are prepared.

 

Baebongsan (neighborhood park)
At the summit, a New Year's celebration and a performance of wishes are held.
A rice cake soup sharing event will also be held at the open square.

 

Bonghwasan (summit)
Locally-inspired sunrise events will be held, including samulnori and daegeum performances, and performances for the health and happiness of residents.

 

Gaewoonsan (playground)
You can enjoy a Pungmul band performance, calligraphy performance, and even a performance by the Seongbuk-gu Women's Choir.

 

Ansan (beacon tower)
There will be a New Year's fortune telling event using hot tea sharing, New Year's greetings, a drum riding experience, and a large Yut board.

 

Yongwangsan (neighborhood park)
Pungmul and Korean traditional music a cappella The performance and New Year's countdown will be followed by a sunrise viewing.

4. Sunrise spots outside of Seoul

If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the outskirts are also a good option.

 

Achasan: The earliest sunrise spot in Seoul

Dobongsan: Samulnori and countdown at Cheonchuksa Temple

Gaehwasan Mountain: Views of the Han River and Haengjusanseong Fortress, AI wish photos, and balloon wish writing.

Maebongsan: Writing a wish list, reciting a congratulatory poem, and performing a celebratory performance

5. If the mountains are too much for you? 5 sunrise events at Seoul parks.

For those who find hiking too daunting, there is also a flat park sunrise spot.

 

Buk Seoul Dream Forest: Writing New Year's Wishes and Reciting Prayers

World Cup Park: Fly balloons and watch the sunrise at Sky Park

Seodalsan: Park Gae-bok, the New Year's Wish

Samsung Sunrise Park: Sunrise Performance and New Year's Fortune

Olympic Park: Songpa Sandae Nori Road Play at Mangwolbong Peak

 

Q&A. 2026 Seoul Sunrise Spots: Your Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q1. Where in Seoul does the sun rise first?
A. Achasan Mountain in Gwangjin-gu is known as the earliest sunrise spot in Seoul.

 

Q2. The hike is difficult, but will I still be able to see the sunrise?
A. Yes, sunrise events are held in flat parks like Bukhansan Dream Forest, World Cup Park, and Samsung Sunrise Park.

 

Q3. Can I still enjoy the event if I arrive later than sunrise?
A. Most experiential events and performances are held around sunrise, so you can participate even if you arrive a little late, but it will be difficult to see the sunrise.

 

Q4. Where is a good place to go with children?
A. We recommend places with gentle slopes, such as Eungbongsan Mountain, Baebongsan Mountain, and Bukhansan Dream Forest.

 

 

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