Stunning Silver Waves in the Sky: Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Seoul Eulalia Festival at Haneul Park

 As autumn paints the city in vibrant shades of red, gold, and amber, one of Seoul’s most breathtaking seasonal events returns — the 2025 Seoul Eulalia Festival. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the city’s skyline and nestled within the eco-restored grounds of Haneul Park, this festival invites visitors to witness the ethereal beauty of silver grass (eulalia) in full bloom. From October 18 to October 24, 2025, the park transforms into a luminous sea of swaying reeds, offering both a visual feast and a serene escape from the city’s bustle.




Originally a landfill turned into a lush ecological haven, Haneul Park has become one of Seoul’s most iconic autumn destinations. During the Eulalia Festival, it not only showcases nature’s splendor but also hosts a wide variety of cultural, ecological, and artistic programs designed for all ages. With nighttime light installations, extended opening hours, and interactive exhibitions, the 2025 edition promises to be more immersive and magical than ever before. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply in search of a peaceful autumn outing, this guide covers everything you need to experience the Seoul Eulalia Festival to its fullest.


Overview of Dates and Location

The 2025 Seoul Eulalia Festival will take place over seven days, from Saturday, October 18 to Friday, October 24, coinciding with the peak blooming season of silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis), also known locally as "eoksae". The venue is none other than the Haneul Park, part of the broader World Cup Park complex in Mapo-gu, Seoul.


Haneul Park is perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Han River, Bukhansan Mountain, and the surrounding cityscape. Reaching the park requires either a scenic hike or a ride on the park’s shuttle train. But once you arrive, the reward is a sweeping field of feathery silver reeds glowing under the autumn sun.



Why Eulalia? The Seasonal Charm of Silver Grass

Eulalia, or silver grass, is native to East Asia and turns into a shimmering spectacle during the fall. Its long, feathery plumes catch the sunlight and wind, creating a hypnotic ripple effect across the fields.


In Korea, eulalia has both aesthetic and cultural significance, often appearing in poetry and traditional artwork as a symbol of the changing seasons. During the festival, the grass reaches its peak silver tone during the day and transforms into golden hues during sunrise and sunset — a sight so enchanting that it draws photographers and nature lovers from across the country.


Nighttime Opening and Illuminated Beauty

One of the standout features of the 2025 festival is the special nighttime opening hours. Visitors will be able to enjoy the ethereal fields after sunset, thanks to carefully designed lighting installations that enhance the natural shapes of the eulalia.


Strategic placement of LED lights, solar-powered lanterns, and pathway illuminations will allow guests to explore the park safely while taking in a whole new perspective of the grassland — where moonlight and artificial lights blend to create an almost surreal atmosphere. This initiative also aims to spread visitor flow more evenly throughout the day, reducing congestion during peak hours.




Cultural Programs and Thematic Exhibitions

The 2025 festival will feature a curated collection of cultural activities and eco-awareness events, all centered around the themes of nature, sustainability, and seasonal beauty. Anticipated highlights include:


  • Outdoor photography exhibitions showcasing past and present visuals of Haneul Park.

  • Eulalia-inspired art installations from Korean and international artists.

  • Live acoustic performances in the evening, enhancing the atmosphere of the fields.

  • Ecological education booths for children and families, focusing on plant biodiversity and urban regeneration.

  • Craft workshops where participants can create leaf prints, eco lanterns, and silver grass bookmarks.


These programs provide both entertainment and education, making the festival a multidimensional cultural experience.


Best Times to Visit for Maximum Visual Impact

Timing your visit is essential to capturing the full glory of the eulalia fields. Here are the top recommended time slots for photographers and landscape enthusiasts:


  • Morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM): The rising sun casts a soft golden glow over the silver grass, ideal for minimal-crowd landscape shots.

  • Late Afternoon (4:30 PM – 6:00 PM): The “golden hour” of sunset sets the fields ablaze with light, turning silver into a dreamy amber-gold.

  • Evening (6:30 PM – 9:00 PM): The night light installations begin to shine, providing a magical alternative view of the landscape.


Whether you’re chasing light for your camera or simply hoping to enjoy a quieter stroll, these times offer the best of both nature and ambiance.




Eco History of Haneul Park: From Landfill to Landmark

One of the most inspiring aspects of Haneul Park is its transformation from a waste site to an ecological treasure. Once a massive landfill site that stored Seoul's waste until the 1990s, the area was gradually rehabilitated through a government-led urban ecology project.


Today, it stands as a testament to environmental recovery and sustainable urban planning. Visitors can learn more about this transformation through eco-information panels, guided tours, and video exhibitions scattered across the park.


Accessibility and How to Get There

Reaching Haneul Park is relatively simple, though a bit physically demanding for some. Here's a quick guide:

  • By Subway: Take Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station (Exit 1). From there, it's a 10–15 minute walk to the base of Haneul Park.

  • Climb the Stairs: A staircase of 291 steps leads to the top — rewarding those who make the journey with incredible views.

  • Eco Shuttle (Sky Train): Available during the festival period, this electric tram offers an easy ride up the hill for seniors, children, or those with limited mobility.


Ample signage in English and Korean ensures that international visitors can navigate the park easily.


Admission and Entry Guidelines

Good news — entry to the Seoul Eulalia Festival is completely free! However, the park has implemented crowd control measures during peak hours to maintain safety and preserve the tranquility of the environment.

Visitors are encouraged to:

  • Reserve shuttle train tickets in advance through the park's official website.

  • Visit during non-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings, or after 7 PM).

  • Avoid bringing large tripods or drones unless with a special permit, due to conservation policies.


Recommended Photography Spots in the Park

For those looking to capture stunning images, here are a few can’t-miss spots:

  • Main Silver Grass Trail: Long corridors flanked by reeds with Seoul’s skyline in the background.

  • Observation Platform: Offers a panoramic view of the Han River and Bukhansan.

  • Sunset Bench Zone: A hidden seating area with west-facing views, perfect during golden hour.

Pro tip: Bring a polarizing filter to cut glare and deepen the blue sky contrast in your shots.





Food, Drinks, and Nearby Attractions

While there are no food vendors directly inside Haneul Park, visitors can grab a meal or coffee at World Cup Stadium Mall just 10 minutes away on foot. There, you'll find:

  • Local Korean eateries

  • Western-style cafés

  • Convenience stores for snacks and water


Nearby attractions include:

  • Nanji Hangang Park (great for riverside walks)

  • Digital Media City (DMC) for tech museums and installations

  • Mangwon Market for authentic Korean street food

Combining a visit to Haneul Park with these nearby spots makes for a full-day itinerary.


Family-Friendly and Pet-Friendly Notes

The Seoul Eulalia Festival is great for families, with plenty of open space for kids to run and explore. However, strollers may struggle with the stair route — the shuttle is a better option for families with toddlers.


Pets are allowed, provided they are leashed and owners clean up after them. Some walking trails may be narrow, so dog owners should be mindful of space.


Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

As an eco-focused park, sustainability is a top priority:

  • Visitors are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and reduce plastic waste.

  • Recycling bins are stationed throughout the park.

  • Rest areas are solar-powered and use reclaimed wood.

The festival continues to promote low-impact tourism, aligning with Haneul Park’s mission of being a green lung for the city.


What to Wear and Bring

Seoul's October weather is cool and crisp, especially in the mornings and evenings. Here’s what to pack:

  • A light jacket or windbreaker

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Camera and spare batteries

  • Picnic mat for resting in open areas

Don’t forget sunscreen if you’re visiting during midday, as the sun can still be strong in autumn.


Where to Find Official Updates

Festival details, performance schedules, and any last-minute changes will be shared via:

  • Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official tourism website

  • @seoul_official on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter)

  • QR codes on-site that link to multilingual event guides

If you're traveling from abroad, check in closer to the date for updates on language-specific brochures and support staff.


How This Festival Compares to Others in Korea

While Korea is famous for its autumn foliage festivals in places like Naejangsan or Seoraksan, the Eulalia Festival offers a more meditative and urban nature experience. The setting — just minutes from Seoul’s city center — and the unique plant life make it distinctly different from tree-focused events.


Final Thoughts

The 2025 Seoul Eulalia Festival is more than just a walk through a field — it’s a sensory journey through light, movement, and nature. From its symbolic silver waves to its eco-conscious roots, this week-long event showcases what happens when urban design, environmental renewal, and cultural celebration intersect. Whether you come for the views, the photos, the peace, or the programming, Haneul Park’s golden grasses are sure to leave a lasting impression this autumn.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Eulalia Festival free to attend?
Yes, admission to both Haneul Park and the festival is free.

Can I visit at night?
Yes, during the festival, the park offers extended nighttime hours with beautiful lighting installations.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with the help of the eco shuttle train and accessible paths.

Are there any performances or music?
Yes, evening acoustic sets and ambient sound installations are planned.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, pets are allowed if leashed and cleaned up after.

How do I get to Haneul Park?
Take Seoul Subway Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station and follow the signs.

Are there restrooms and facilities?
Yes, eco-friendly restrooms and resting zones are available.

Is it safe to go alone?
Absolutely. Haneul Park is safe and well-patrolled during the festival.

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