Jongno District to Install Inclined Elevator in Elevated Area of Sungin-dong

52.15 Billion Won Invested
Completion Targeted for December Next Year

Jongno District in Seoul (District Mayor: Chung Moonhun) has been selected for a Seoul Metropolitan Government public project, securing a total project budget of 5.215 billion won to install an inclined elevator in Sungin-dong.

Elevator bird's-eye view. Provided by Jongno-gu.

The designated site covers 2-2 Sungin-dong (from Exit 2 of Changsin Station to Sungin Church), spanning a steep slope with a length of 115 meters, a width of 2 meters, and an incline of 26%. This area is particularly susceptible to safety accidents during winter due to icy conditions, and residents unable to use the stairs have had to take a detour of approximately 1 kilometer. The surrounding area includes Myungshin Elementary School, Ssangyong Apartment Complex 1, and Jongno Centreville Apartments, making it urgent to improve residents' accessibility to daily amenities.

To address the challenges posed by an aging population and the increasing number of mobility-impaired individuals, the district applied for the Seoul city project in September last year. After a committee evaluation, the site was finally selected in June this year.

With the acquisition of special adjustment grants last month, the district will carry out basic and detailed design services from this month through March next year. Construction is scheduled to begin in April next year, with the goal of completing a 15-passenger inclined elevator by December. There will be a total of three stations: upper, middle, and lower.

Upon completion, the project is expected to improve the steep, stair-centered living environment, ensuring both resident safety and mobility rights. The number of beneficiaries, including those living in the area, is estimated to be around 8,000 people.

Jongno District Mayor Chung Moonhun stated, "The installation of this elevator is a significant step not only in enhancing resident safety and daily convenience, but also in building a community that includes those with limited mobility. We will continue to expand mobility facilities and work to create an environment where everyone can move conveniently and safely, improving the steep, stair-centered living structures throughout Jongno."

Site visit to safety-vulnerable areas. Provided by Jongno-gu.