How Seoul turned a stream into a major urban tourist attraction

Transforming a floodwater system: how Seoul turned Cheonggyecheon Stream into an urban renewal success story

Seoul, South Korea’s bustling capital, is renowned for its rapid development and modern skyline. However, beneath its high-rise buildings lies a story of urban transformation that has reshaped the city’s landscape. Cheonggyecheon Stream, once buried beneath an elevated highway, has been revitalised into a vibrant public space that enhances both the city’s aesthetics and liveability. The project has served as a model for cities worldwide, demonstrating the potential for urban waterways to support environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social well-being. This article explores how the restoration of Cheonggyecheon Stream revitalised Seoul and what lessons other global cities can draw from this ambitious initiative.

The evolution of Cheonggyecheon Stream

Cheonggyecheon Stream has played a significant role in Seoul’s history for over 600 years. Initially a natural waterway, it supported daily life and acted as a crucial flood management system. However, as the city expanded, the stream deteriorated into an open sewer, becoming a public health concern. During the 1960s and 1970s, as part of South Korea’s push for rapid urbanisation and modernisation, the stream was covered by concrete, and an elevated highway was constructed above it. This infrastructure was hailed at the time as a sign of progress, but by the late 20th century, it had become clear that prioritising road networks over public spaces came at a cost.

The case for restoration

By the late 1990s, public attitudes towards urban development in Seoul were shifting. Several infrastructure failures, including the tragic collapses of the Seongsu Bridge in 1994 and the Sampoong Department Store in 1995, raised concerns about the city’s ageing structures. Moreover, Seoul’s rapid urbanisation had led to increased congestion, pollution, and reduced green spaces. The government faced a choice—continue maintaining the deteriorating elevated highway or reimagine the space for a more sustainable future.

In 2002, the newly elected mayor of Seoul, Lee Myung-bak, championed the restoration of Cheonggyecheon Stream as a key urban renewal project. The initiative aimed to improve air quality, reduce traffic congestion, create recreational spaces, and establish a more environmentally friendly cityscape. Despite concerns about potential traffic gridlock, the project moved forward with strong political backing and public support.

The transformation process

The restoration project, completed in just 27 months at a cost of 386 billion won (approximately £220 million), involved the removal of the elevated highway and the reconstruction of the stream. The revitalised Cheonggyecheon Stream now spans nearly 6 km through Seoul’s central districts, featuring pedestrian-friendly pathways, stepping stones, green spaces, and cultural installations. The project also incorporated sophisticated flood management infrastructure to handle extreme rainfall events.

Since its reopening in 2005, Cheonggyecheon Stream has become a focal point for residents and visitors alike. The area is now 3.6°C cooler than surrounding streets, reducing the urban heat island effect. Improved air circulation has led to a noticeable decline in pollution, and the return of wildlife has restored biodiversity. Furthermore, the project has reinvigorated the local economy, with businesses and tourism flourishing around the revitalised space.

Economic and social impact

The restoration of Cheonggyecheon Stream has had a profound economic impact on Seoul. Property values in the area surged, with office rents increasing by 13% and land prices rising between 35% and 80% in redevelopment districts. The transformation of the stream also led to a shift in land use from industrial zones to commercial hubs, hotels, and cultural venues.

Socially, the stream has provided much-needed public space in one of the world’s most densely populated cities. It serves as a cultural corridor, hosting year-round festivals, exhibitions, and performances. The Seoul Lantern Festival, an annual event featuring intricate paper lantern displays, has become a significant attraction, drawing millions of visitors. Additionally, the stream’s green spaces offer residents a tranquil retreat from the fast-paced urban environment, promoting well-being and outdoor activities.

Challenges and criticisms

Despite its success, the Cheonggyecheon restoration has not been without challenges. Unlike its historical counterpart, which flowed naturally, the modern stream relies on artificial water supply. Approximately 48,000 tonnes of water are pumped daily from the Han River and groundwater sources to maintain its flow, leading to concerns about sustainability and maintenance costs. The city spends 2.9 billion won annually on upkeep, which has raised debates about whether the project is truly an environmental success or simply an aesthetic improvement.

Nevertheless, the overall benefits of the project—ranging from improved urban resilience to increased economic opportunities—have outweighed these concerns. The success of Cheonggyecheon has encouraged further urban renewal initiatives in Seoul, including the removal of 16 other elevated highways and the creation of more pedestrian-friendly spaces.

Lessons for global cities

The transformation of Cheonggyecheon Stream serves as an inspiring example for cities worldwide looking to revitalise their urban environments. Many global cities face similar challenges of ageing infrastructure, environmental degradation, and limited public spaces. The Seoul model demonstrates that reclaiming waterways and integrating them into urban planning can offer significant ecological, economic, and social benefits.

From New York’s High Line, a repurposed railway turned into a linear park, to Utrecht’s conversion of a motorway back into a canal, cities are increasingly recognising the potential of transforming outdated infrastructure into valuable public spaces. By prioritising human-centred urban design, cities can enhance liveability, reduce pollution, and foster economic growth.

Conclusion

Seoul’s decision to restore Cheonggyecheon Stream has profoundly reshaped the city’s landscape, improving environmental quality, boosting the local economy, and providing a vibrant public space for residents and visitors. While challenges such as water management and maintenance costs remain, the project has demonstrated the immense value of integrating nature into urban spaces. As cities worldwide seek innovative ways to enhance sustainability and liveability, the success of Cheonggyecheon offers a compelling blueprint for the future. By reclaiming and revitalising waterways, urban centres can create healthier, more dynamic, and more attractive environments for generations to come.

See https://www.georgejamesconsulting.com/ for more.