Seocho District Removes Traffic Island in Front of Seoul Arts Center, Creates Cultural Plaza

Securing 500 Square Meters of Pedestrian Space
A New Stage for Youth Street Performances

Seocho District in Seoul (District Mayor Jeon Seong-su) announced on January 19 that it has completely removed the traffic island opposite the Seoul Arts Center and newly renovated the area into a 'Pedestrian-Friendly Cultural Plaza' for residents.

The 'Pedestrian-Friendly Cultural Plaza' created after the removal of the traffic island opposite the Seoul Arts Center and the expansion of the sidewalk. Provided by Seocho District Office.

The traffic island, which was installed in 2013, had a vehicle-centered structure for over 12 years, resulting in narrow pedestrian spaces. This area was in urgent need of improvement due to growing safety concerns, especially when crowds gathered after performances at the Seoul Arts Center.

The district, in consultation with the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, invested a total budget of 400 million won to complete the removal of the traffic island and the sidewalk expansion project. Through this construction, approximately 500 square meters of space were secured, creating an environment where even mobility-impaired individuals, such as those using strollers or wheelchairs, can walk safely.

Considering that the area near the Seoul Arts Center is the only 'Music Culture District' in the country, the district plans to further develop the area into a 'Cultural Plaza' rather than simply expanding the sidewalk. The expanded space will be provided as a street performance stage for young artists, and by March this year, the design of the underground walkway entrance will also be improved to establish a new cultural landmark.

Last October, the district also removed the traffic island at Bangbae Station Intersection and completed a pedestrian-centered intersection improvement project.

Seocho District Mayor Jeon Seong-su stated, "By removing the vehicle-centered traffic island in front of the Seoul Arts Center, we have achieved the meaningful result of ensuring both residents' safety and their right to enjoy culture. Moving forward, we will introduce a variety of cultural and artistic content so that this area can become a representative 'cultural hotspot' of Seocho."