Seoul Is Building The World’s Largest Spokeless Ferris Wheel – And Looks Absolutely Ridiculous

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has unveiled its plans to build the largest spokeless Ferris Wheel in the world.

Dubbed the Seoul Ring, the Ferris Wheel will be constructed at Haneul Park in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, and serve as a new landmark and gateway to Seoul. The SMG considered various locations for the Ferris wheel, finally settling on Haneul Park for its view, accessibility, and proximity to neighboring tourism infrastructure. In addition, the Haneul Park location also symbolizes the unity and reunification of the Korean race as it is geographically close to North Korea.

“The SMG will concentrate its desire and wishes for a unified Korea and national unity on the Ring,” stated the press release.

The Ferris Wheel’s spokeless design will come with its challenges. The city has consulted with domestic and international experts to ensure construction safety, structural integrity, and an eco-friendly design. The Seoul Ring will not only be an entertainment facility but also a cultural complex providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the history of Nanjido.

The Seoul Ring Zero will feature 36 carriages, each accommodating up to 25 passengers, with the Ferris Wheel carrying around 12,000 people daily. Additionally, the Ferris wheel will include a “dine-in-the-sky” facility to make the most of the striking structure.

The Korea Herald stated that the Ferris wheel would cost around $310 million (400 billion won). A wedding band inspired the spokeless design, and construction will start in June 2025.

“Seoul has long reviewed the feasibility of Ferris wheels given the millions of tourist visits expected and jobs created, but the fundraising challenges and safety regulations have left plans in disarray,” said Hon Sun-ki, the director general of the Future Urban Spaces Planning Bureau of the Seoul Metropolitan Government, at a briefing.

“Now is the time to wipe out concerns and build the Ferris wheel under a feasible plan to reveal the true value of the Han River and open the way for the era when some 30 million tourists visit Seoul,” he added.

The Seoul Ring is set to become a major attraction for tourists, and the project’s overall vision is to create a more beautiful, harmonious, and unified Korea. The early mock-ups of the Ferris wheel show a sleek and futuristic design meant to be visually stunning and structurally sound.

The project reflects the city’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and eco-friendliness. With construction set to start in a few years, the Seoul Ring is poised to become a significant landmark and attraction for Seoul.