Definition
Seoullo 7017 is an elevated urban skypark and public walkway in Seoul, South Korea, constructed on the former site of an elevated highway that linked the city’s central districts.
Overview
Opened to the public on May 5 2017, Seoullo 7017 spans approximately 1.0 kilometer (0.62 mile) between Namdaemun Station in Jung‑gu and Seoul Station in Yongsan‑gu. The park repurposes the disused 1970s overpass, transforming it into a green pedestrian corridor that offers views of the surrounding cityscape, as well as connections to nearby cultural, commercial, and transportation facilities. The project is part of Seoul’s broader “green growth” and “urban regeneration” initiatives, aiming to increase public green space, improve air quality, and promote walkable city design.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Seoullo” combines “Seoul,” the capital city, with the Korean suffix “-lo” (로), meaning “road” or “path.” The numeric component “7017” refers to the original construction year of the overpass (1970) and the year of its conversion into a park (2017).
Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Structure | Reinforced concrete viaduct originally built in 1970 to alleviate traffic congestion; now reinforced and retrofitted for pedestrian use. |
| Landscape | Hosts over 24,000 plants representing more than 228 species, including native trees, shrubs, grasses, and seasonal flowers. |
| Facilities | Includes rest areas, cafes, exhibition spaces, information kiosks, Wi‑Fi, and accessibility features such as elevators and ramps. |
| Art and Culture | Features rotating art installations, seasonal light displays, and cultural events organized by municipal and private partners. |
| Transportation Links | Directly connects to Seoul Station (KORAIL, high‑speed KTX), Namdaemun Station (Line 4), and several bus routes; integrates with nearby pedestrian pathways and bicycle lanes. |
| Sustainability | Designed to reduce urban heat island effect, manage stormwater runoff, and provide habitats for urban wildlife; incorporates energy‑efficient lighting. |
| Management | Operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Department of Urban Planning in collaboration with private sponsors and NGOs. |
Related Topics
- Cheonggyecheon – a restored stream and urban park in central Seoul.
- Seoul Forest – a large public green space combining woodland, meadow, and cultural facilities.
- High Line (New York City) – an elevated linear park on a former freight rail line, often cited as a parallel international example of adaptive reuse.
- Urban regeneration – policies and projects aimed at revitalizing underused or deteriorated urban areas.
- Sustainable urban design – planning approaches that integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations in city development.