Dongseoul Terminal, Opened in 1987, to Be Reborn as Transportation Hub... Oh Sehoon: "Expecting a Landmark" [Real Estate AtoZ]

Oh Sehoon: "Strengthening Transportation Infrastructure ... Revitalizing Northern Seoul"
Inspection of Aging Facilities and Discussion of Modernization Plans
Construction to Begin End of Next Year, Completion Targeted for 2031

Modernization Project Bird's-eye View of Dongseoul Terminal in Gwangjin District. Seoul Metropolitan Government

Oh Sehoon, the Mayor of Seoul, visited Dongseoul Terminal in Gwangjin District to inspect the aging facilities and discuss the schedule and plans for its redevelopment into a mixed-use complex. The Seoul Metropolitan Government aims to transform the outdated Dongseoul Terminal into a major integrated transportation hub and landmark in the northern part of the city. The project has gained momentum by resolving conflicts with local residents, such as selecting a site for a temporary terminal.

On December 15, Mayor Oh stated at Dongseoul Terminal, "It will be reborn as a 39-story metropolitan transportation hub embracing the Han River and serve as a landmark for Seoul." He added, "Without using tax money, we will improve chronic transportation issues in the surrounding area and upgrade outdated infrastructure such as Gangbyeon Station through public contributions, returning private development profits to citizens. This will become a leading example of 'wise development.'"

Dongseoul Terminal has served as a transportation gateway for the northeastern region, handling over 110 routes and more than 1,000 buses daily. However, after 38 years of operation, safety issues stemming from old facilities and severe traffic congestion caused by crowds and buses have become serious problems. Although former Gwangjin District Mayor Kim Kidong proposed modernization in 2012, the project stalled due to a lack of concrete progress.

In response, the city developed a plan to redevelop Dongseoul Terminal into a complex facility incorporating transportation, work, retail, and cultural functions. On May 28, the 9th Urban and Architectural Joint Committee approved a modified plan to designate the Dongseoul Terminal site as a district unit planning area. The modernization project is set to begin construction as early as the end of 2026, following completion of individual permits and administrative procedures such as traffic impact assessments, architectural reviews, and building permits, with completion targeted for 2031.

The development faced a crisis when residents opposed using Guui Park as a temporary terminal site, but this issue was also resolved. As local residents continued to demand the preservation of Guui Park, discussions took place among the district office, private developers such as Shinsegae Property, and residents. After reviewing alternative locations and consulting relevant organizations and companies, an agreement was reached with stakeholders including the Techno Mart management and transport operators to utilize Techno Mart facilities. Specific operational plans were established, such as using the above-ground loading area of Techno Mart as a temporary boarding site and the underground vacant space as a waiting area, raising expectations for revitalizing Techno Mart.

Dongseoul Terminal will be reborn as a structure with seven underground floors and 39 above-ground floors, with a total floor area of 363,000 square meters. All terminal functions, including the passenger terminal and transfer center, will be located underground to minimize traffic congestion and air pollution. The above-ground space will be designed as an area with views of the Han River. The overall scale will increase by more than 120% compared to the current terminal, significantly reducing congestion. Commercial, work, and cultural facilities will be organically arranged throughout the complex.

In particular, through the preliminary negotiation system, approximately 138 billion won in private development profits resulting from increased floor area ratio will be invested in public facilities for citizens. The preliminary negotiation system was established to ensure public interest in large-scale development projects. Seoul was the first in the country to implement the system in 2009, and it was legislated in 2012. Currently, 16 cities and provinces operate the preliminary negotiation system.

Additionally, to enhance convenience for citizens, the metropolitan bus stops that were previously scattered along the roadside will be relocated underground within Dongseoul Terminal. A new direct ramp will be constructed to connect Dongseoul Terminal with Gangbyeonbuk-ro, reducing vehicle congestion and air pollution caused by bus traffic. A pedestrian deck will be built to improve access to the Han River, and there are plans to remodel the exterior of Gangbyeon Station on Subway Line 2, create green urban rest areas such as the elevated plaza, and enhance the disaster prevention capabilities of the Guui water detention basin.