Expanding water transport links in Seoul's river network
In an effort to enhance the commuting experience for residents and visitors, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has launched a new transportation initiative. The city's Hangang Bus service, set to officially launch in September, will be accompanied by free shuttle buses at Magok, Apgujeong, and Jamsil docks.
These shuttle buses are designed to connect the Hangang ferry piers with nearby subway stations, making travel more convenient and accessible.
Magok Pier
From August 12, two shuttle buses will run every 15 minutes, connecting Gayangnadulmok (approximately a 3-minute walk from Magok Pier) to the vicinity of Yangcheon Hyanggyo Station (Line 9) and Balsan Station (Line 5). The service primarily caters to morning commuters.
Jamsil Pier
A circular shuttle route will operate every 15 minutes from August 12, linking Jamsilsaenaenamulmok (a 5-minute walk from Jamsil Pier) to Jamsilsaenae Station (Line 2) and Sports Complex Station (Lines 2 & 9). This service targets leisure and evening commuters.
Apgujeong Pier
From September, a shuttle bus will run every 30 minutes between Sinsa-namulmok (a 5-minute walk from Apgujeong Pier) and Apgujeong Station (Line 3).
The operational times for these shuttle services align with the Hangang Bus experiences, with trial services starting in August 2025 and full weekday services operating during rush hours from September 2025 (6:30–9:00 am and 5:30–10:00 pm).
These shuttles complement city and village buses and bike rental stations ("Ddareungi") located within a 3-minute walk from the piers. The shuttle system is free of charge, and the Hangang Bus ferry service itself charges a fare of 3,000 won, with additional passes available.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government is also planning to add additional stations for the Ddareungi bike rental service near the Hangang Bus stops. This integrated transportation network supports easier and more convenient travel along the Han River ferry piers of Magok, Apgujeong, and Jamsil.
This initiative is part of a broader plan that includes leisure amenities near the piers such as cafes and convenience stores. Previously, limited transport connections to the Hangang Bus stops have been identified as a major shortcoming. This new transportation network aims to address this issue and provide a more seamless travel experience for all.
[1] Seoul Metropolitan Government press release, August 2025. [2] Seoul Metropolitan Government website, August 2025. [3] Korea Times article, August 2025. [4] JoongAng Ilbo article, August 2025.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government's new transportation initiative includes shuttle buses that connect the Hangang ferry piers with nearby public-transit stations, such as Yangcheon Hyanggyo Station, Balsan Station, Jamsilsaenaenamulmok, Jamsilsaenae Station, and Sports Complex Station, catering to morning, leisure, and evening commuters. This transportation network, which also includes the Hangang Bus service and Ddareungi bike rental stations, aims to make travel more convenient and accessible in the finance and industry sectors, especially near the Magok, Apgujeong, and Jamsil pier areas.
