Where to Find the Pink Penguin in Seoul: Location, Photos & Tips
These are not the first penguins of this kind that we have ever seen, but that did not make them any less exciting. Whenever we plan a trip, one of the very first things we research is simple. Where can we find penguins, and what kind of penguins? So while putting together our Seoul itinerary and searching for the best things to do in the city, we looked for anything penguin-related. And when we discovered the Pink Penguins by the Han River, we knew they were going straight onto our must-visit list.
There was no debate. If there are penguins in a city, we will see them. Especially pink ones.
So read on to learn what these Pink Penguins in Seoul actually are, where exactly to find them along the Han River, and why this fun and unexpected spot deserves a place on your Seoul itinerary.
What Are the Pink Penguins at the Han River
The neon pink penguins you see along the Han River are not random decorations or temporary props. They are part of a large-scale art installation by Cracking Art Group, an international art collective known for placing colorful animal sculptures in urban spaces around the world.
Founded in 1993, the Cracking Art Group uses recycled plastic to create bold, oversized animals that immediately grab attention. But these installations are not just about bright colors and playful shapes. The project explores the relationship between nature and artificiality, sustainability, and how modern cities continue to reshape our environment.
The pink penguins are intentionally cracked, and that detail is symbolic. The cracks represent transformation, fragility, and regeneration in a rapidly changing world.
Seeing them by the Han River feels both fun and thought-provoking. And for us, spotting penguins in Seoul was reason enough to make this stop part of our itinerary.
Are There Other Penguin Installations Around the World
Yes! The pink penguins by the Han River are not the only penguin-themed works from the Cracking Art Group out in the world. One of the most well-known is the line of bright yellow penguins in Kampa Park, which we’ve also visited. These 34 cheerful yellow figures, installed along the Vltava River near Museum Kampa, were installed as a permanent public art piece in 2008. They’re made from recycled materials and even light up at night, making them a playful and iconic sight for visitors exploring Prague’s riverside.
As for other penguin installations specifically from Cracking Art, there aren’t many permanent ones widely documented beyond Prague and Seoul. The collective frequently introduces colorful animal sculptures into cities as part of temporary exhibits or site-specific shows, meaning you may see their penguins or other creatures pop up here and there at art festivals, public art events, or special exhibitions. But the yellow penguins in Prague and the pink penguins by the Han River remain among the most talked-about penguin installations from this project, which you can actually visit right now.
How to Get to the Pink Penguins in Seoul
The pink penguins are at Ichon Hangang Park, right along the Han River. While they are not in the very center of Seoul’s main tourist areas like Myeongdong or Hongdae, they are worth the little journey. You need to travel a bit.
We took the subway, which is the easiest and most reliable option in Seoul. The closest major station we used was Yongsan Station. You can reach Yongsan Station via Line 1 (dark blue line) or the Gyeongui–Jungang Line, depending on where you are coming from in the city. From Yongsan, we waddled to the river and into the park. It takes a little while on foot, so yes, you will need to waddle a bit.
There is no direct subway station or bus stop right next to the penguins themselves, so be prepared for a short riverside waddle. But that is part of the charm. The views of the Han River make the stroll enjoyable.
For precise navigation, you can use these GPS coordinates: 37.52370° N, 126.95352° E. The penguins are set within the open riverside space, so once you get close, they are hard to miss.
Practical Information Before You Visit
Since they are installed outdoors in the park along the Han River, there are no official opening hours. You can visit them anytime, day or night. Whether you come for a sunny afternoon stroll or an evening walk by the river, the penguins will be there waiting for you. Another big plus is that this is completely free. There is no entrance fee, no ticket, and no reservation required. Because they are located in a public park, visiting the penguins is simply part of enjoying the Han River area. It makes this one of the easiest and most budget-friendly attractions to add to your Seoul itinerary.
Our Waddle to the Pink Penguins
We got off at Yongsan Station, just like we mentioned before, and from there our little penguin adventure officially began. Instead of rushing straight to the river, we waddled through the neighborhood a bit, taking in the quieter streets and local vibe. It was actually really nice to see this side of Seoul, slightly away from the busy tourist centers, and it made the whole experience feel more authentic and relaxed.
As we approached the Han River, the views already felt rewarding. The wide open riverside space, the skyline in the distance, and the fresh air made the walk completely worth it. And then it happened. We spotted the very first pink head peeking out in the distance. That tiny neon glimpse instantly made us even more excited. The closer we got, the more penguins appeared, and just like that, our waddle turned into full-on happiness.
Finally, as we arrived at the pink penguins, it felt like stepping into a little sphere of happiness. There are around a dozen of them, and they are much bigger than you might expect, standing at roughly one and a half meters tall. Their bright neon color pops beautifully against the blue of the Han River and the city skyline. Some of the penguins are placed on the wooden boardwalk, almost as if they are welcoming visitors for a riverside stroll, while others stand closer to the riverbank, gazing out across the water toward Seoul on the other side. The whole scene feels playful, slightly surreal, and impossible not to smile at.
We ended up spending quite a while there because, obviously, we had to say annyeonghaseyo to each penguin individually. It would have been rude not to. Each one seemed to have its own little personality, so we slowly walked from one to another, taking photos and just enjoying the moment. If it had not already been late November and quite cold, we probably would have stayed even longer.
The Han River wind really goes straight into your bones. Standing there in late November, we could feel the cold creeping in with every gust. If the penguins were not bright neon pink, we might have actually started believing we were somewhere in Antarctica. Seoul winters can get seriously cold, and by the river, the temperature feels even lower. We can only imagine how magical it must look in the middle of winter, when the penguins are covered in a layer of fresh snow. At that point, it feels even more like visiting a tiny Antarctic scene in the middle of Seoul. Just make sure to bundle up properly, because the Han River breeze does not joke around.
The whole area around Ichon Hangang Park is really lovely, with plenty of open space to wander and enjoy views of the Han River. On a warmer day, it is perfect for a longer waddle or even sitting by the water. But since the cold started creeping in, we eventually decided it was time to head somewhere indoors to warm up, and our penguin time sadly came to an end.
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Are the Pink Penguins Worth Visiting
For us, yes. The pink penguins are penguin-approved. If you are a penguin lover or if you follow the Cracking Art Group, this is one of the stops you should have on your Seoul list. The installation stands out for its neon-pink color, and its size and setting make it very Instagram-worthy. Against the Han River backdrop, the penguins really pop in photos.
The area also feels quieter compared to central neighborhoods like Myeongdong, which can sometimes feel overwhelming due to the crowds. Here, you get open space, river views, and a calmer atmosphere.
On the other hand, the penguins are a bit further from the main tourist attractions, so you do need to plan some extra travel time. If your schedule in Seoul is tight and you prefer to stay close to the city’s central highlights, this is worth considering. But for us, it is 100 percent penguin approved.
Best Time to Visit the Pink Penguins
The pink penguins can be visited at any time of day, but some moments are better than others, especially if you want good photos and a comfortable visit. Sunset is the best time for photos, when the light softens, and the neon pink color stands out beautifully against the Han River and the Seoul skyline. It also connects nicely with searches for popular sunset spots in Seoul.
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to visit. The weather is mild, the air is clearer, and walking along the river feels pleasant rather than extreme. These seasons are ideal if you want to combine your penguin visit with a longer walk around the Han River.
Winter creates a very different atmosphere. Seoul winters can get seriously cold, and by the river, it feels even colder. But if the penguins are covered in snow, the whole scene starts to feel almost Antarctic, which makes it a unique winter experience and a fun addition to a list of Seoul winter things to do.
In summer, try to avoid midday, especially on hot and humid days. The open riverside area offers little shade, so visiting early in the morning or later in the evening is much more enjoyable.
Photo Tips for the Pink Penguins
For photos, timing and angles make a big difference. Visit during golden hour or sunset for the best light and softer shadows. Try stepping slightly lower or farther back to capture both the penguins and the river behind them, which helps show their size and setting. Wide-angle shots work especially well here, as they allow you to include multiple penguins with the Han River and city skyline in the background.
Close By Attractions
Because the pink penguins are located a little further from Seoul’s main tourist hubs, there is not a long list of attractions directly next to them. Apart from waddling around Ichon Hangang Park and enjoying views of the Han River, the area itself is mostly open space, waddling paths, and riverside scenery. And honestly, that is part of the charm. It feels calmer and less intense than central Seoul.
That said, you are never really far from anything in Seoul. With the subway system being so efficient, you can easily combine your penguin visit with a few nearby highlights.
- Ichon Hangang Park. Wide riverside paths, bike lanes, picnic spots, and open views of the Han River. Perfect for a longer stroll before or after visiting the penguins.
- National Museum of Korea. One of the most important museums in the country, located not far from Yongsan. A great indoor option if the river wind gets too cold.
- War Memorial of Korea. A large museum and memorial complex that gives deeper insight into Korean history.
- Banpo Bridge. Famous for its Moonlight Rainbow Fountain show. A lovely riverside walk if you continue along the Han River.
- Yongsan. Explore the local neighborhood, cafés, and smaller streets on your way back from the park.
As penguin-biased travelers, there was never any question that we would visit the pink penguins at the Han River. Of course, we had to stop here.
But bias aside, we truly recommend adding this spot to your list. It is one of the budget-friendly things to do in Seoul, meaning completely free, and it offers a different pace compared to the busy central districts. If you need a break from the crowds, the noise, and the fast pace of areas like Myeongdong, this riverside detour feels refreshing.
For us, it is 100 percent penguin approved. A little waddle, a little art, a little river breeze, and a lot of pink happiness.
Pack your bags and waddle on!
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