More people are spreading out picnic mats along the Han River to eat raw fish. Cooler autumn weather is creating a new leisure routine that links Seoul's fish markets with the riverside parks.
Seoul temperatures have fallen to as low as 15 degrees Celsius this week, keeping conditions favorable for outdoor activity, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration on the 29th. With daily temperature swings of up to 15 degrees in typical autumn fashion, more residents are visiting Han River parks, and the trend known as "hoe-nic" — a blend of hoe, or raw fish, and picnic — is spreading quickly.
A route that involves buying takeout sashimi at Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market and heading to Yeouido Han River Park has gained traction on social media. Online communities are actively sharing details of these "hoe-nic courses," from transit routes to food pairings and how to rent picnic mats.
The ways people enjoy it are diversifying as well, from pairing the fish with Han River ramen and traditional liquor to picking up vegetables for mulhoe, a cold raw fish soup. Many describe it as a different kind of experience in the city, well suited to taking in the autumn air.
Beyond younger visitors, families and middle-aged and older adults are noticeably joining in. Called a course that children and adults alike can enjoy, it is taking hold as an autumn outing that cuts across generations.
Still, some worry about the waste that comes with eating outdoors. Large plastic containers, plastic wrap and ice packs used for takeout sashimi are discarded in bulk, along with leftover fish scraps and strongly scented sauces.
Experts point to Busan's Millak Waterside Park, where a surge in visitors and complaints about garbage eventually led to an alcohol ban, and say self-policing is needed. Seoul's Future Han River Headquarters said there is no problem with buying takeout sashimi and eating it at a Han River park, but urged visitors to dispose of food waste separately and to sort containers for recycling thoroughly.
