Completion of Second Phase from Seocho IC to Seocho 1 Bridge
Walkway Expansion, Barefoot Trail, and Enhanced Amenities
The second phase of the ‘Gilmajung Green Forest Trail,’ created by utilizing green space along the Gyeongbu Expressway in Seocho-gu, Seoul, has been reborn as an expanded walkway, barrier-free path, and experiential barefoot trail, receiving positive feedback from residents. By April next year, the third phase of construction will be completed, and the walkway will connect from Seocho IC to the Han River.
Yongheori Neighborhood Park nearby Gilmajung Green Forest Trail and Hwangto Experience Trail. Provided by Seocho-gu.
The ‘Gilmajung Trail’ is a walking path of approximately 3.9 kilometers located in the green area along the Gyeongbu Expressway. The metasequoia and zelkova tree forests provide cool shade, making it a beloved spot for residents over the years. However, as the facilities aged, the need for renovations arose. In response, Seocho-gu has been promoting the ‘Gilmajung Green Forest Trail Project’ to connect the previously disconnected sections and extend the trail all the way to the Han River.
Following last year’s completion of the first phase (Jamwon IC to Sinsa 2 Overpass, about 0.8 km), the newly finished second phase covers the section from Seocho IC to Seocho 1 Bridge (about 1.5 km), which is heavily used by residents. The previously narrow walkway has been widened from 2.5 meters to 4-5 meters, and all stairs and curbs at entrances have been removed to provide a barrier-free path, making it easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Additionally, seasonal plants such as hydrangeas, liriope, and variegated hostas have been added at the entrances and surrounding areas. Two rest areas and benches have been installed to enhance user convenience. Near Yongheori Neighborhood Park, the existing one-way barefoot soil path has been converted into a circular route, separated from the main walkway as a dedicated path. Convenience and experiential facilities, including the Hwangto Experience Trail, Hwangto Ball Experience Area, acupressure zone, and foot-washing station, have also been expanded, making it the largest barefoot experience space in Seocho-gu.
The district plans to carry out the third phase (about 2.4 km), connecting Seocho 1 Bridge to Jamwon IC and Sinsa 2 Overpass to the Han River, with completion targeted for April next year. Once the project is finished, a 4.7 km uninterrupted premium forest trail will stretch from Seocho IC to the Han River.
Seocho-gu Mayor Jeon Sungsoo stated, “The Gilmajung Green Forest Trail will become more than just a walkway; it will establish itself as a signature premium forest trail representing Seocho. We will continue to create green cultural spaces where residents can breathe and enjoy together.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
