Seoul
Seoul combines an extensive riverside cycleway network with a large city‑run bikeshare (Ddareungi), making it practical to explore neighborhoods and the Han River by bike.
Stolen Bikes in Seoul
Bike theft is an ongoing challenge in Seoul — current risk: unknown. Learn how to protect your ride with our Security Tips and understand coverage options in the Insurance Guide. If your bike was taken, you can report a stolen bike in Seoul to alert the community.
At a glance
Daily riders
1.9% mode share (2023)
Dedicated paths
≈1,336.8 km of bicycle roads (2023)
Bike sharing stations
2700
Theft risk
unknown
Stolen bikes are commonly targeted near transit hubs and popular areas. Use two quality locks and register your frame number.
Quick map
Open Seoul on the map
Why it’s special
Han River Cycling Trail spans ~240 km across the city’s riverbanks
Seoul Bike (Ddareungi) with ~45,000 bikes and ~2,700 stations citywide
Ongoing upgrades separating walkways and bikeways along Hangang Parks
Cycle Rapid Transport (CRT) corridors planned to strengthen commuting links
Many metro stations (e.g., Line 9) provide bicycle depository parking
Safety tips
Use front and rear lights at night; fines apply for no lights.
Obey signals and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks; ride predictably.
Avoid riding on sidewalks unless expressly permitted by signage or law.
Lock through the frame and a wheel to a fixed rack; add a second lock for the other wheel.
Prefer CCTV‑covered racks (e.g., metro bicycle depositories) and avoid overnight street parking.
Consider a GPS/BT tracker hidden on the bike; record serial numbers for reporting.
Ride like a local
Rules that matter
- Follow traffic signals; bicycles are vehicles under Korean law.
- Use bicycle paths where provided; otherwise ride at the right edge of the carriageway.
- At night, use a headlight and rear light or reflective gear.
- Signal turns and lane changes by hand or indicator until the maneuver is complete.
- Do not ride under the influence; drunk cycling is penalized.
Typical fines (EUR)
Unwritten etiquette
- Keep right except to pass; ring your bell when overtaking.
- Hold a straight line on busy river paths; avoid sudden stops.
- Make eye contact at shared crossings and yield to pedestrians.
- Queue courteously at bikeshare docks; return bikes promptly.
- In groups, ride single‑file on narrow sections.
Security & parking
Parking like a pro
- Use metro “Bicycle Depository” areas (e.g., every Line 9 station) for sheltered parking.
- On the Han River, park only at signed racks to avoid obstructing promenades.
- Lock through frame and wheel with a high‑security (ART/Sold Secure) U‑lock plus cable/chain.
- For overnight, store indoors at your accommodation or guarded facilities when available.
Theft & lock strategy
- Record frame serial and distinctive marks; photograph the bike.
- Double‑lock to immovable fixtures; avoid quick‑release left unsecured.
- Choose CCTV‑covered racks (stations, public facilities) and high‑traffic areas.
- Use a discreet tracker (in saddle/seatpost) and set geofence alerts.
- If stolen, report immediately and check lost‑and‑found portals.
Bike Garage Spotlight: Seoul Metro Line 9 Bicycle Depository
Sheltered bike parking with racks and CCTV at all Line 9 Phase‑1 stations; convenient for park‑and‑ride integration with the metro.
Learn more on the city site
Rent a bike
Epic day trips
Ara Bicycle Path (Gyeongin Ara Waterway) • 21 km
Flat, family‑friendly canal path linking the Han River to the West Sea; easy to access and ride one‑way with transit connections.
Han River to Paldang Bridge (Hanam) • 53 km
Follow the Hangang path east to the edge of Seoul at Paldang Bridge, gateway to the South Han River trail and countryside views.
What’s next
Hangang Park Bikeway Upgrades (2024–2025)
Separation of walkways and bikeways with green buffers, widening cycle tracks to 4 m on key sections; program expanding separated segments and widths through 2025.
Cycle Rapid Transport (CRT) & 2030 Network Goal
City plan targeting ~1,330 km of bicycle lanes by 2030 via CRT corridors that prioritize continuous, safer commutes.
Your perfect day
Start on the Han
Rent a Ddareungi near Yeouinaru or Mangwon; do a quick brake/light check and roll onto the riverside path.
Ride the river loop
Cruise wide, signed sections between Yeouido and Banpo, practicing steady pace, right‑side riding, and gentle bell use when passing.
Lunch & short detours
Park at signed racks in a riverside park, then detour to Seoul Forest or Yeouido Park before rejoining the path.
Facility spotlight stop
Swing by a Metro Line 9 station to see the indoor Bicycle Depository (sheltered racks, CCTV); useful for multimodal trips (capacity unknown).
Return & dock
Return the bike to a nearby Ddareungi dock; ensure it locks and end the rental in‑app.
Sources
World Bank – Seoul: Public & Active Transport Resilience Case Study (2021)
thedocs.worldbank.org
Accessed: 2025-09-09
SMG – Ddareungi near 200M rides (45,000 bikes, ~2,700 stations)
english.seoul.go.kr
Accessed: 2025-09-09
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Frequently asked questions
Can tourists use the public bike system?
Yes. In the Seoul Bike app select “Foreigner,” purchase a pass with a credit card, and follow the prompts. An English chatbot is available for help.
Where should I park overnight?
Prefer indoor/guarded options (e.g., metro Bicycle Depository areas) or your accommodation. Avoid leaving bikes outside overnight on the riverfront.
What are typical fines for cyclists?
Examples: signal violation ≈₩30,000 (~€18.43); using a phone while riding ≈₩30,000 (~€18.43); no lights at night ≈₩10,000 (~€6.14); drunk cycling ≈₩30,000, refusal of breath test ≈₩100,000 (~€61.44).
How do I report a stolen bike?
Call 112 and report at the nearest police station; search/record via the national Lost112 portal (English available).