Seoul’s Yeouido Park is set to be transformed into an urban ecological park by 2030, with a new master plan unveiled by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. This ambitious project marks the first major overhaul of the park since its opening in 1999, aiming to create a vibrant green space that integrates with the surrounding Han River and the Yeouido area.
Comprehensive Revitalization Plan
The selected design, chosen through an international competition, envisions a significant transformation of Yeouido Park. Key features include the creation of dense forests and ponds throughout the park, along with new walking paths connecting the Han River on the north side to the Saetgang River on the south. A central cultural plaza within the park will be converted into a 20,000-square-meter (approximately 6,000 pyeong) lawn, aptly named ‘Yeouideulpan’ (Field of Yeouido Women), designed to resemble a natural field with gentle slopes.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on July 1st that this design was selected after an international competition. The plan is to begin design work this month, with the goal of completing the renovation by 2030.
According to officials, the new Yeouido Park aims to “maximize the preservation of Yeouido’s ecological landscape while strengthening its function as a walking path connecting the Han River, Saetgang River, and both West and East Yeouido.” They expressed anticipation that it will become a new landmark within the city.
Synergy with Second Sejong Cultural Center
A significant aspect of the redevelopment plan is the synergy expected with the Second Sejong Cultural Center, scheduled to open in 2030. This new cultural complex will be situated on the northern bank of the Han River, adjacent to Yeouido Park.
The Second Sejong Cultural Center will occupy a site of approximately 39,500 square meters, with an investment of 400 billion won. It is planned to include a large concert hall with 1,800 seats and a medium-sized hall with 800 seats. Officials believe this will enable a variety of outdoor performances, potentially utilizing the ‘Yeouideulpan’ lawn.
A Park’s Evolution
Yeouido Park, which opened in 1999, is a representative park in Seoul covering an area of 220,000 square meters. Initially, it was developed with forests and facilities on either side of a former concrete plaza. However, over time, the aging infrastructure has led to calls for modernization.
The push for the redevelopment of Yeouido Park gained momentum with the city’s initiative to construct the Second Sejong Cultural Center, highlighting the need for a revitalized park that can complement the new cultural hub.
Key Features of the Renovation:
- Transformation into an urban ecological park by 2030.
- Creation of new forests and ponds.
- Enhanced walking paths connecting the Han River and Saetgang River.
- Conversion of the central cultural plaza into a 20,000m² lawn, ‘Yeouideulpan’.
- Integration with the planned Second Sejong Cultural Center.
The renovation project is expected to not only improve the park’s ecological value but also enhance its recreational and cultural offerings, solidifying its status as a beloved urban oasis.
