Seoul Battleship Water Picnic Returns for Second Year with Water Slides, Naval Tours and Foam Cannons

The Seoul Metropolitan Government is set to host the second annual Seoul Battleship Water Picnic this Saturday, transforming Mangwon Hangang Park into a large-scale summer attraction that combines water activities with naval history. The event builds on last year's inaugural edition, reflecting the city's broader push to expand seasonal programming along the Han River as part of its long-term Hangang revitalization efforts.

Running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the single-day event offers attendees a full day of entertainment for 1,000 won ($0.75). Visitors can experience water cannon blasts, a 20-foot inflatable slide, and tours of a decommissioned 1,900-ton naval frigate — all within the same venue.

The festival features age-appropriate splash zones designed to accommodate toddlers, school-aged children, and adults in separate areas. Safety guards will be stationed throughout the grounds. Attractions include 4-meter and 6-meter water slides, fountain tunnels, water cannons, and spinning water-roller tubes.

A centerpiece event is scheduled for 2:30 p.m.: the Seoul Battleship vs. Chamsuri Water Gun Showdown. Participants armed with personal water pistols will compete on opposing teams, blasting water into giant tanks to float ball-pit spheres out through the top.

Live EDM sets will play throughout the day, beginning at 11 a.m. and culminating in an afternoon citizen busking session. Additional activities include pool games, underwater treasure hunts, and giant ball-hoop basketball. The festival concludes at 4:30 p.m. with a foam cannon finale.

When ready to dry off, visitors can board three retired naval vessels anchored along the Han River: the Seoul Battleship, a Chamsuri-class patrol boat, and a Dolphin-class submarine. The Seoul Battleship, a former Republic of Korea Navy frigate commissioned in 1984 and decommissioned in 2015, has been permanently moored at the park as a museum ship. Retired Navy captains will lead docent tours at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m., providing insights into life at sea.

"We created a richer lineup this year so families and friends can beat the heat and build unique summer memories," said Park Jin-young, head of Seoul's Future Hangang Office.

No advance tickets are required. Attendees are encouraged to bring a towel and water gun to Seoul Battleship Park, located near the Mangwon Han River Bus Terminal.

Source: The Korea Times