The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) announced its plans to promote the Great Hangang Project on Thu, Mar. 9 to strengthen the city’s urban competitiveness as well as raise the citizens’ quality of life by enhancing the attractiveness and convenience of the Hangang River and upgrading the riverside amenities and attractions while respecting its natural ecosystem, aiming to rank as a global top five city in the field of urban competitiveness.

As the second version of the previous Hangang Renaissance Project (2007), the Great Hangang Project will enhance the environment and facilities of the Hangang River through 55 projects, focusing on 4 core strategies of nature, transportation, attractions, and vitality.

First, the project will focus on harmonizing nature with the Hangang River. Following the drastic expansion of ecological parks through the previous Hangang Renaissance Project, the city will continue to improve the environment of the Hangang River so as to restore its ecology and expand eco-friendly urban green space for citizens’ leisure and relaxation through 9 projects.

Second, the project will focus on providing convenient transportation to the Hangang River. With an aim to enhance the accessibility of the Hangang River, the city will expand connectivity and enhance convenience for those with mobility impaired via various modes of transportation for both pedestrians and public transit users through 15 projects.

Third, the project will focus on creating attractions at the Hangang River. The city will offer greater enjoyment to visitors by installing photogenic viewing spots as well as spaces and venues for artistic and cultural experiences, such as concerts and festivals, through at least 27 projects.

Fourth, the project will focus on adding vitality to the Hangang River. By connecting the river with various parts of the city, the Hangang River will serve as a central hub that revitalizes the local economy and residential areas through various urban planning support plans.

Seoul will promote the Great Hangang Project as an expandable plan to further develop the Hangang River by discovering new tasks as well as reflecting citizens’ demands and experts’ opinions.