[One Day Walk] Godukcheon, a Resting Place for Gangdong Residents

Editor's NoteAsia Economy provides walking courses for subscribers of the ‘One Day Ten Thousand Steps, One Day Thousand Characters’ newsletter. The One Day Ten Thousand Steps content is organized by daily and monthly themes, featuring courses recommended by Asia Economy, the government, local governments, experts, and subscribers.

Godeokcheon.
Photo by Asia Economy DB

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] Today's ten-thousand-step course is Godeokcheon, the easternmost stream along the Seoul city boundary. Although it is not very large, the walking trail is well maintained. It currently passes beside the former Godeok Jugong Apartments, which have been brilliantly transformed through reconstruction, making it a popular resting spot for local residents.

Godeokcheon originates from Iseongsan in Hanam City, Gyeonggi Province, flowing northward where Choi Stream, Gaemichon Stream, and Daesagol Stream join it before it flows toward the Han River. In the past, it was also called ‘Genae’ because of the abundance of crabs, and traces of this name still remain around Godeokcheon. Including all tributaries, its length is about 7 km, but the walking trail is set along the approximately 3.5 km section of Godeokcheon inside the Seoul city boundary.

The Godeokcheon course starts in front of the Samsung Engineering headquarters building by the Godeokcheon riverside. Here, you can also find the ‘Sangil-ri Manse Square’ marker. This place was where over 1,000 people held a Manse (Long Live) movement during the March 1st Movement under Japanese colonial rule. Descending to the riverside, you will find neatly arranged walking paths on both sides. The paths are divided by direction, so there is no worry about bumping into oncoming pedestrians.

As you enjoy the well-maintained flower beds and lush greenery, you will come across a water play area. This water play area operates only temporarily during the summer and has a public restroom for urgent needs. In summer, the cool water streams turn it into a ‘hot place’ for neighborhood children.

Walking a bit further, you will be greeted by a large zelkova tree standing alone without other big trees nearby. In summer, its dense leaves present a truly majestic appearance. Seeing this tree means you are close to Genae Riverside Park. The park preserves the old name ‘Genae’ of Godeokcheon. It offers exercise equipment, a fountain, and resting spaces, making it a good spot to take a break if you feel tired.

Afterward, the walking trail continues flatly. Passing through the Godeok-Gangil district, which is currently under active development, the Han River soon comes into view. The Godeok Bridge, scheduled for completion in 2024, is also visible at a glance. Take a breath and now it’s time to head back. If you came along the right side of Godeokcheon, returning along the left side?or vice versa?adds a small pleasure to the walk.