The N. Seoul Tower’s Air Quality Lights:

A Colourful Way to Track Seoul’s Air Quality

If you’ve ever wandered around Seoul, you’ve probably seen the majestic N. Seoul Tower lighting up the night sky. It’s one of the city’s iconic landmarks and a must-see, but what if I told you there’s more to those lights than just looking pretty?

Enter the Air Quality Lights System. Yep, you read that right! The N. Seoul Tower has come up with a clever (and colourful) way of letting us know how the air quality is doing. No more squinting at apps or worrying about dodgy pollution—just look up and check out the tower’s light show. It’s that easy!

Why It’s a Game-Changer

Having an easy way to check the air at a glance is such a clever move—especially for tourists, families, and anyone who might be a bit more cautious about the air they’re breathing. It’s also a helpful reminder to be more mindful about our environment and how the city’s pollution levels can shift throughout the day. Plus, they give a bit of an artistic touch to the city’s skyline.

What’s the Deal with the Air Quality Lights?

So here’s how it works: the N. Seoul Tower uses LED lights to visually communicate the state of the air. The lights change colour depending on the quality of the air in the city, so you can get a quick snapshot of whether it’s a good day to go for a walk or if you might want to grab that face mask (because we all know how important it is to protect your lungs!).

Each colour corresponds to a different level of air quality:

• Green: Fresh and clean air! This is what we all want to see, right? It means the air quality is great, and you’re all good to go for a stroll around the city.

• Yellow: A little bit of pollution in the air. It’s not terrible, but it’s best to keep an eye on things. If you’re heading out, maybe take it easy.

• Orange: Pollution levels are rising, so it’s not ideal. It’s probably best to avoid spending too much time outdoors, especially if you’re sensitive to air quality.

• Red: Uh-oh, the air quality is poor. If you see red, it’s a good idea to limit your time outside, particularly for those with respiratory conditions or if you’re feeling a bit off.

When to Catch the Light Show

If you’re hoping to spot the lights, you’ll want to head to the N. Seoul Tower in Namsan Park in the evening, when the lights really stand out. And guess what? The colours are updated in real-time, so you can literally see the lights change as the air quality does. It's a quirky but super helpful way of staying aware of what’s going on in the atmosphere.

Where Can You See the Air Quality Lights?

You don’t have to be at the base of the tower to enjoy the lights. The N. Seoul Tower sits on top of Namsan Mountain, so if you're in the area, you can see it from quite a distance. It’s especially visible from places like Myeongdong, Insadong, and Itaewon, so you can easily check the colours while you’re out exploring the city.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

The N. Seoul Tower’s Air Quality Lights are a simple yet brilliant idea that makes it easier than ever to stay informed about Seoul’s air. Whether you’re a local trying to plan your day or a tourist wanting to stay safe, this light system adds a fun, colourful touch to your daily routine.

Next time you’re out and about in Seoul, make sure to glance up at the tower and check out the colours. It’s a quick, easy way to stay connected to the environment and helps you enjoy the city to the fullest—without worrying about what you’re breathing in!

And hey, it’s a pretty cool photo op too!