Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza
In Central Seoul

Starting point of Cheonggyecheon Stream

Introduction

Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza (or Cheonggyecheon) is a public space located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. It was first established in 2005 as part of the city’s efforts to revitalize downtown Seoul.

The plaza is situated along an 8 kilometer (5 mile) long stream that has been restored from urban development and features art installations, sculptures, fountains, and seating areas. It has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who come to take in the sights and sounds of the plaza.

The stream also serves as an important source of water for Seoul’s citizens, providing clean drinking water to over 2 million people.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Cheonggyecheon also helps mitigate city heat and helps improve air quality, making it an integral part of the city’s urban environment. With its beautiful scenery and cultural significance, Cheonggyecheon provides a unique experience for visitors and locals alike.

From morning to night, the plaza is alive with activity as people come together to relax, enjoy music, watch performances or take in the stunning views of the stream. Whether you are looking for a peaceful and tranquil escape or an exciting place to explore, Cheonggyecheon is a must-visit destination in Seoul.

Beyond being a beautiful and inviting space, Cheonggyecheon also has much historical significance. It was once part of the Seoullo, an area that was developed to protect the capital of Joseon Dynasty from Japanese invasions in the 16th century. Sections of the old city wall still remain along Cheonggyecheon, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.

The plaza has also undergone much transformation during modern times. In 1958, Cheonggyecheon was turned into an elevated highway, leaving the area neglected and ignored.

It wasn’t until 2005 that Mayor Lee Myung-bak initiated an ambitious project to restore Cheonggyecheon back to its original state. Through a combination of ecological restorations and cultural programming, the area has been transformed into a vibrant urban oasis for both locals and visitors alike.

cheonggyechon stream

Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza is a perfect place for an easy and quick visit for all types of visitors. It offers entertaining and exciting exhibitions.

Cheonggyecheon is conveniently located at the heart of Seoul, where both domestic and international visitors flock not only to enjoy the colorful and creative lighted designs.

I admit that it is one of my favorite places despite the sad and controversial stories behind this ‘restored’ stream. Yes, Cheonggyecheon was a ‘dead stream’ but was brought back to life (more on this below).

Why do I like this place? Could be your question. Although I already gave a hint above, let me mention my reasons, if I may…

Lights exhibition at Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza

Attractions

Design and nature. Cheonggyecheon was designed in such a way that it mimics the original flow of the stream (or river back then). The banks on both sides are properly plastered for all visitors to stroll on comfortably.

Some flowering plants, trees, lamp posts, and decorations make the stream look nice and relaxing to place to be. Although the additional decors make it less natural, the flowing water and some living creatures (fish, ducks, etc.) confirm that it is still supporting nature.

Exciting Exhibitions. One of the best attractions at Cheonggyecheon are the exhibitions. Examples include any images and works of art designed in such a way that they lighten up when darkness comes.

Glass horse or angel sculptures certainly capture your attention and would make you take photos of them--either as selfie background or just their images.

Historical Site. Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza bears the history of the area in terms of how the ancient people lived there. Settlers in the area used to do everything in the stream: washing clothes, bathing, playing...

Archaeologically, the area has various artifacts uncovered including potteries, carvings, old Chinese characters, among others, that confirm how people have lived and gained support from the water of the stream up until it was covered from public view and drove the settlers away from the vicinity.

Accessibility

Yes, I have been visiting this place since it is ‘revived’ and designed with its present form. Been doing that because it is very accessible.

Every time I visit the Gwanghwamun Square area, I always check if there’s anything worth exploring, such as exhibits of images with LED lights.

Besides being located close to other best attractions in Seoul area, it is very accessible to public transports (please see below). You can take any bus or Seoul Subway Line to get here.

Choices of hotels. One can stay in any of the hotels around the area and easily move around. Yes, you can use any of the accommodations nearby as your base for your travels and exploration in Seoul and nearby provinces or cities.

Staying near Gyeonggyecheon Stream Plaza could be a practical decision if you want to see, do, or enjoy lots of Seoul’s travel destinations.

Available Facilities

I should say you can get anything you would need when visiting the area. You will find the following places and facilities…

restaurants, cafes, fast foods, bars, street foods;
banks, commercial institutions, city hall, hotels
wheelchairs, baby strollers
setting areas, benches, parasols, and tables

Please, note that some facilities will only be available during particular seasons or events. So, you might have to check out relevant website on Gyeonggyecheon.

Also, the city has several bike lanes and a beautiful park where you can take leisurely strolls or run. You can also rent electric bikes to explore the area!

Whether you want to take in some culture, enjoy a delicious meal, shop until you drop, take advantage of recreational activities or learn about the history of this area, Gyeonggyecheon has something for everyone.

Thank you for visiting the Gyeonggyecheon website! We hope that this information helps you plan a fun-filled trip to our city.

Cheonggyecheong Stream and lights

brief historical background

Cheonggyecheon (청계천) Stream is an 11-kilometer-long refurbished water and park area that runs through downtown Seoul, the capital city.

The modern Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza is a product of urban renewal project by restoring the old stream that existed during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

It has been recorded that the Japanese tried to cover the stream but their financial capacity during that period hindered them from doing so.

Finally, the stream’s ‘eyesore’ to the public became hidden from view when it was covered with a concrete and elevated highway. The highway was part of South Korea’s post-war era economic development projects.

Finally, the stream’s ‘eyesore’ to the public became hidden from view when it was covered with a concrete and elevated highway. The highway was part of South Korea’s post-war era economic development projects.

However, being part of former president Myung Bak Lee’s ‘green’ projects, the elevated highway was dismantled in 2003 to restore the hidden stream into its present state.

Cheongggyecheon Stream Plaza Today
The stream itself starts from Cheonggye Plaza where interesting cultural and economic exhibitions are put up on special seasons and events.

The renovated stream banks pass under 22 bridges right before its water returns to Hangang River.

Bazaar at Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza, Seoul

Cheonggyecheon Plaza covers around 2,500 square meters in area and is located at the fountain area where the stream starts to flow.

The plaza is created with a traditional Korean bojagi (a colorful traditional wrapping cloth) design. The design features intricate traditional stone carvings with colorful items.

The details of the 22 bridges spanning over Cheonggyecheon Stream are described on the plaques visible in the plaza. Also, a map of the stream provides visitors a birds-eye-view of the stream.

Plaza and Vehicle-Free Zone Area

When the Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza was completed, the Seoul Metropolitan Government designated that the area would be available only for people seeking space and a safe area free from motor-vehicles' presence.

Besides being a vehicle-free area, you will also enjoy the colorful Candle Fountain by night which features fantastic sights of rainbow lighting fixtures.

A two-tiered waterfall which reflects through rainbow colors could be a mesmerizing view. Some details include the Palseokdam wishing wells which are made of 8 different stones each coming from the country’s 8 provinces.

useful facilities

Any visitor that needs basic facilities can avail either within the area or nearby it. Here are most of them...

Restrooms. These are not provided within the plaza of stream’s vicinity but are available in the big business building found along the area. Alternately, most cafes have washrooms available for their customers.

Physically Disabilities. Entering the plaza area is available for wheelchair and stroller users. One can enter into Hwanghakgyo Bridge and Samilgyo Bridge using elevators.

A wheelchair rental service is available at Cheonggye Plaza Information Center and Ogansugyo Information Center. Phone: +82-2-2290-6803.

Pets. Yes, you can bring your pet (as I did) nearby the plaza and Cheonggyecheon Stream. Just make sure you have it leashed, and you are prepared to clean up any mess that your pet might dispose of.

Just to let you know that only some dog breeds are allowed to be raised in Korea. Only the ‘non-aggressive’ and smaller in size are permitted to be in public spaces.

Getting to Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza

As I mentioned, getting to Cheonggyecheon Stream Park is quite easy as there are numerous public transports available.

You can take the following Seoul Subway lines…

Seoul Subway Line 1 and get off at any of these subway stations:
City Hall, Jonggak, Jongno 3(sam)-ga, Jongno 5(o)-ga, Dongdaemun, Sinseol-dong Stations

Seoul Subway Line 2 and get off at...
City Hall, Euljiro 1(il)-ga, Euljiro 3(sam)-ga, Euljiro 4(sa)-ga, Sindang, Sangwangsimni Stations

Seoul Subway Line 1, 3, and 5 then get off at…
Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station

Seoul Subway Line 4 and get off at...
Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station

And, Seoul Subway Line 5 then get off at Gwanghwamun Station and take Exit 5.
Gwanghwamun Station is the best one if you wish to start exploring the stream from its source. Besides, most of the exciting exhibits (such as decorative sculptures, lights, etc.) are displayed in this area.

Taking a Bus
Hop on to any bus traveling the routes of Gwanghwamun or Jongno. Get off at any of the stops along this route and just ask which side of the road leads to Gyeonggyecheon Stream Plaza.

Cheonggyecheon Stream Plaza
In Central Seoul

Introduction