370.4 Billion Won Invested in Cultural Space Development
Waterside Promenade and Floating Gardens to Be Created
Nodeul Island on the Han River in Seoul will be transformed into a cultural and artistic space that combines exhibitions, performances, and areas for relaxation.
On July 2, the Seoul Metropolitan Government held the 11th Urban Planning Committee meeting and announced on July 3 that it had approved, with modifications, the proposal to designate Nodeul Island on the Han River as a major urban planning facility (cultural facility).
Located at 302-6 Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Nodeul Island has primarily been used for performance venues and convenience facilities on its western side, while the eastern forest and waterfront areas have seen low utilization. Through the "Nodeul Global Art Island" project, the city plans to develop the entire island into a cultural and artistic space featuring exhibitions, performances, and areas for relaxation.
The ground level of Nodeul Island will be reconfigured into a space offering diverse cultural content such as exhibitions, experiential activities, and performances, while preserving the existing buildings. Along the waterfront, a promenade, floating gardens, and media installations will be created so that citizens can enjoy both culture and leisure along the Han River.
An aerial walkway connecting the east and west sides will include exhibition spaces and an observatory. This will serve as a new pedestrian axis linking Nodeul Island, and provide a three-dimensional relaxation space with panoramic views of the Han River and Seoul. In addition, the eastern forest area will undergo ecological restoration by removing invasive plant species and focusing on native vegetation.
The total project cost for the Nodeul Global Art Island initiative is expected to be approximately 370.4 billion won. The city aims to complete the detailed design and administrative procedures, with the goal of reopening in March 2028.
A Seoul city official stated, "We plan to develop Nodeul Island not just as a simple leisure space, but as a leading cultural hub of Seoul where nature and culture coexist."
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