The Seoul Metropolitan Government on Nov. 30 said it will select an annual city color from next year, starting with sky coral (shown).

By Hong Angie
Photos = Seoul Metropolitan Government

The Seoul Metropolitan Government from next year will annually adopt an official color.

The city on Nov. 30 said it will start with sky coral, which symbolizes the pink sky of the Hangang River.

The selection was based on the three categories: the capital's main issues, resident lifestyles, and a color people can agree on and communicate with. Sky coral was inspired by the river's pink sunset, which city residents went to see the most for leisure this year.

Sky coral was also selected since the times during which most people visit Hangang River Parks to see the sunset are 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The number of online searches for a pink sunset also skyrocketed from June to September, a peak summer period for watching it.

In a city survey from Sept. 28 to Oct. 5 on 1,014 residents and 45 color experts on what landmarks come to mind when they think of the capital and the place they want to repeatedly visit next year, the river topped both categories.

The city said it will use its annual color to illuminate leading landmarks. Since Nov. 30, sky coral has lit up nighttime attractions like N (Namsan) Seoul Tower, Lotte World Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, World Cup Bridge, Seoul City Hall, the three glowing islands on the river Some Sevit and Seoul Botanic Park. 

Municipal authorities also concluded memorandums of understanding with domestic companies on spreading and using the city's color to develop products.

Another plan is to hold the Seoul Color Festival in connection with programs like Seoul Outdoor Library, Gwanghwamun Lounge and Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink.

"We will develop a 'Seoul Color' reflecting the lifestyles and interests of residents that change every year and apply them to various fields," Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said. "Using the bright and appealing color as a medium, we will communicate with the people, spread messages of support and make Seoul a charming place."

Sky coral, the official 2024 color of the city of Seoul, illuminates Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul's Jung-gu District.