The SEOULDAL, a tethered moon-shaped hot-air balloon, floats over Yeouido, Seoul. Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government By Anna J. Park The Seoul Metropolitan Government will soon allow international tourists to book tickets online to ride the SEOULDAL balloon, a new city landmark that offers stunning views of the capital from 130 meters above Yeouido.
Previously, due to weather conditions affecting the balloon’s operation, international tourists could only purchase tickets on-site. Starting this year, however, they will be able to reserve their tickets online. The Seoul Tourism Organization said Monday that officials will begin working-level discussions later this month with major global online travel platforms to enable international tourists to book the hot-air balloon ride online.
Leading platforms in the industry, including Klook and KKday, are among those involved in the discussions. SEOULDAL is a cable-tied helium balloon designed to resemble a full moon, installed and operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government since last summer at Yeouido Park. The balloon soars up to 150 meters in the air for about 13 minutes, providing breathtaking views of the Han River, especially at night.
Ticket prices are 25,000 won ($17) for adults and 20,000 won for minors. Since weather conditions play a major role in the balloon's operation, online reservations for the ride have only been available to Korean nationals through the country’s major platforms, Naver and KakaoTalk. "W.