Seoul Welcomes 2026 With Stunning Sunrise at 7:47 a.m.

The first sunrise of 2026 will light up Seoul at 7:47 a.m., following its earliest appearance over Dokdo at 7:26 a.m. As 2025 came to a close, residents and visitors prepared to welcome the new year with clear skies and chilly temperatures forecast for the capital.

Weather reports predict crisp conditions for January 1, with morning temperatures in Seoul dropping to minus 9 degrees Celsius. The cold won't dampen the views, as several prime spots across the city offer unobstructed sightlines of the dawn.

Yanghwa Bridge in Mapo District remains a favoured location, providing easy access and sweeping vistas from Namsan Tower to Yeouido. For those willing to climb, Haneul Park—also in Mapo—rewards visitors with panoramic sunrise scenes from its highest point, Haneul. On the eastern edge of the city, Mount Acha delivers expansive views of the Han River and Seoul's skyline without demanding a long trek. Meanwhile, Mount Inwang in Jongno District offers equally striking sunrise displays, accessible via a moderate walk rather than a strenuous hike.

The new year begins with ideal conditions for sunrise watchers in Seoul. With clear skies and multiple scenic locations, the city provides ample opportunities to witness the first dawn of 2026. No visitor statistics from 2025's events are available, but the forecast suggests another memorable start to the year.