Hangang Bus Ferry - All you need to know
- FLip Korea
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
On Sunday, March 1, the Hangang Bus ferry officially resumes full operations across the Han River after a three-month suspension caused by a grounding accident in November.
Following extensive inspections, dredging work, and new safety installations, Seoul city officials confirmed that the ferry system is ready to return to normal service, with stronger safety controls and reorganized routes.
What Happened in November?
In November, a ferry deviated from its designated nighttime route and ran aground due to low water levels. Service was immediately restricted to a limited 10.3 km section between Magok and Yeouido in western Seoul.
After the accident, the Seoul Metropolitan Government conducted:
A joint government safety inspection
A full river depth survey
Navigation risk assessments
Structural and operational system upgrades
Extensive River Safety Improvements
Before reopening, the city completed a detailed riverbed inspection across an 8.9 km stretch between Apgujeong and Jamsil near Hannam Bridge.
Key Reinforcement Measures
1. Riverbed & Navigation Safety
Shallow zones were dredged.
Debris was removed to prevent hull damage.
River depth measurements were reassessed for safe clearance.
2. Smart Route Deviation Alarm System
A new automated alarm system has been installed:
If the ferry veers off its authorized route, an immediate alert sounds.
This prevents unintended drift, especially during night operations.
3. Improved Buoy Visibility
Navigation buoys were previously criticized for being hard to see at night.They have now been elevated from 1.4 meters to 4.5 meters, dramatically improving visibility and route guidance.
4. Inspection Results
120 issues were identified during inspection.
96 safety-critical items affecting navigation have already been resolved.
The remaining 24 are scheduled for completion in the first half of the year.
City officials emphasized that passenger safety is now the top operational priority.
Updated Hangang Ferry Routes (2026)
The ferry system now operates two separate routes, both centered around Yeouido Pier.
Route 1 – Eastern Line
Jamsil → Yeouido
Route 2 – Western Line
Magok → Yeouido
Each route runs:
16 round trips per day
One departure every hour
First Departure Times
Jamsil: 10:00 AM
Magok: 10:20 AM
Passengers transferring at Yeouido Pier between east and west routes do not pay an additional fee.
To handle increased passenger flow, waiting areas at Yeouido Hangang Park will be expanded.
East Section (Jamsil Line)
Jamsil → Apgujeong → near Hannam Bridge → Yeouido
West Section (Magok Line)
Magok → Gayang → Dangsan → Yeouido
(Stops may vary slightly depending on operational adjustments.)
Fare Guide
General Ticket: 3,000 KRW
Child Ticket: 1,100 KRW [Ages 6–12]
Teen Ticket: 1,800 KRW [Ages 13–18]
Transfer discount available: Climate Card / T-money supported
Hangang Bus Fare Tip!
Add just 5,000 KRW per month to the Climate Card and ride unlimited for a month
For more updated information: https://www.hgbus.co.kr/
Express Service Launching in April
Starting in April, a direct express ferry will connect:
Jamsil ⇄ Yeouido ⇄ Magok
This rush-hour express route will:
Eliminate transfers
Reduce commuting time
Offer a scenic alternative to congested road traffic
Temporary Pier for Spring Expo
To prepare for increased visitors during the Seoul Forest Garden Expo in May, a temporary pier will be installed at Seoul Forest.
This addition is expected to significantly boost accessibility for event attendees.
Free Rides for Seniors (Limited Promotion)
From March 3 to March 13:
Passengers aged 65+ receive one complimentary ferry ride per day.
This promotion aims to encourage senior citizens to experience the upgraded ferry system.
Why This Matters for Seoul
The Hangang Bus ferry is part of Seoul’s long-term mobility vision:
Reducing urban road congestion
Expanding eco-friendly transportation
Activating the Han River as a practical commuting corridor
Rebuilding public trust after safety concerns
Deputy Mayor Park Jin-young of the Future Hangang Project Headquarters emphasized that continuous inspections will remain in place even after operations resume.
With upgraded safety systems, clearer navigation, improved docking areas, and new express plans, the Hangang Bus ferry is positioning itself as a reliable alternative to Seoul’s crowded subway and road traffic.
For commuters, tourists, and river lovers alike, March 1 marks a fresh restart for river transportation in Seoul.
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