18. Han River: Chimeak without a Korean ID

The Han River Chimeak Experience

"Chimeak" (치맥) is the beloved Korean combination of fried chicken (치킨, chikin) and beer (맥주, maekju). The Han River parks are the iconic setting for this experience — sitting on a mat by the river as the sun sets, with a bucket of crispy fried chicken and cold beer, is genuinely one of Seoul's finest simple pleasures.

The challenge for tourists is that most Korean delivery apps require a Korean phone number and Korean-issued payment card to register. Here is how to do it without either.

Option 1: Shuttle Delivery App (Best for Tourists)

The Shuttle Delivery app (available on iOS and Android) is specifically designed for Han River Park delivery and explicitly supports international users:

• Registration with email (no Korean phone number required)
• International credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted
• English-language interface available
• Menu items include English descriptions

How to Order:

1. Download Shuttle Delivery from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Enable location services and select your Han River Park (there are multiple — confirm which park you are at: Yeouido, Ttukseom, Banpo, etc.).
3. Browse available restaurants — fried chicken chains like BBQ치킨, BHC, 교촌 (Kyochon) are usually available.
4. Place your order and head to your designated "Delivery Zone" (배달 구역) sign in the park. These are numbered signs on poles. Your order confirmation will specify which zone number to go to.
5. Meet your delivery rider at the zone sign. Payment is completed in-app.

Option 2: Han River Convenience Store Kiosks

All major Han River parks have large GS25 convenience stores that stock instant foods, snacks, ramyeon (instant noodles made fresh with boiling water provided), and cold beverages including beer. No app or Korean ID required — just buy from the store directly.

The kiosk approach does not get you fresh fried chicken, but it is the simplest option for spontaneous visits. Many convenience stores in Han River parks also carry pre-packaged fried chicken that is adequate for the experience.

Best Han River Parks for the Experience

• Yeouido Han River Park (여의도한강공원): The most popular and largest. Excellent city skyline views. Accessible from Yeouido Station (Line 5 or 9).
• Ttukseom Hangang Park (뚝섬한강공원): Popular with younger crowds and university students. Good for a lively atmosphere.
• Banpo Han River Park (반포한강공원): Known for the Banpo Rainbow Fountain (분수), which runs in the evenings. Romantic atmosphere.
• Mangwon Han River Park (망원한강공원): Less touristy, beloved by locals. Slightly less crowded.

What to Bring

• A mat or picnic blanket (rental available at most park kiosks for ₩3,000)
• Bug repellent (summer evenings by the river attract mosquitoes)
• Extra napkins (fried chicken is messy)
• A bag for your trash — leave no trace, use the trash bins provided