We all have different ways of welcoming the year 2024 to a new beginning in 2025, but we all hope for something a little better than this year. We’ve compiled a list of the four best sunrise spots in Seoul and three in Gangwon-do for those who are planning to see the sunrise on January 1, 2025.
Sunrise spots in Seoul – Sky Park, Eungbongsan Mountain, Maebongsan Mountain, and Inwangsan Mountain
You don’t have to travel far to feel the spirit of 2025 up close in Seoul. These are Haneul Park, one of the most famous sunrise spots in Seoul due to its close proximity to the sky, and hiking spots such as Eungbongsan, Maebongsan, and Inwangsan, which are easy to climb and offer fresh air.
1. Haneul Park
This park is famous for the Mugweed Festival, but it’s also famous for its panoramic sunrise and sunset views. On January 1, not only can you watch the sunrise, but there are also various events such as drumming, taebuk performances, New Year’s Eve openings, and wish writing.
2. Eungbongsan Palgakjeong
Also known as Mount Eungbongsan for its beautiful spring forsythia, Eungbongsan is the highest mountain in Seongdong-gu. Compared to other infamous mountains in Seoul, Eungbongsan is a relatively easy climb, like a neighborhood stroll, but the views are anything but easy. Boasting beautiful views of the Han River and the city, it also hosts a variety of New Year’s events.
3. Maebongsan Summit
At Maebongsan Mountain in Guro-gu, the 2023 Lunar New Year’s event will be held at 7 a.m. on January 1, 2023, starting with a ceremony at the badminton court of the Pine Nut Savings Water Plant, followed by a hike to the top of the mountain, including handing out wishing handkerchiefs and sharing hot tea. As you climb to the summit, you can watch the sun rise, wave wishing handkerchiefs, and perform celebratory songs, and guides will be stationed at major points to ensure your safety.
4. Inwangsan Cheongwoon Park
In Jongno-gu, the Inwangsan Sunrise Festival will be held from 6:30 am to 9 am. The event, which will be held at Inwangsan Cheongwoon Park and the Blue House Fountain Plaza, will feature events to celebrate the New Year, such as hanging New Year’s wishes and writing New Year’s wishes, and the first sunrise of the New Year at 7:40 a.m. Snow removal equipment and safety personnel will be deployed to ensure safety.
Korea’s Sunrise Spots – Donghae Sea
The East Sea is the fastest place to see the sunrise in Korea, so many people from all over the country come here every year, and there are many day-trip transportation options such as trains and buses.
1. Homigot
Homigot is located at the easternmost point of the Korean Peninsula and is the fastest place to see the sunrise in Korea. It is famous for the ‘Hands of Win-Win’ on the sea, the sunrise square, and the Homigot Lighthouse.
2. Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park
Jeongdongjin is a tourist spot and sunrise spot made famous by the popularity of the drama Hourglass. There is a sunrise train from Cheongnyangni Station, so transportation is easy, and the view of the sea from the station is very beautiful.
3. Gyeongpo Beach
Gyeongpo Beach, one of the most famous sunrise spots in Gangneung, Gangwon-do, along with Jungdongjin, is the largest beach on the east coast of Korea, and is lined with trees, making it a beautiful place unlike any other. Gyeongpo Beach is close to many of Gangneung’s best spots, including coffee and restaurants, so why not plan a visit together?