A long-awaited overpass in Seoul's Seodaemun District will finally open to traffic on Friday after 12 years of delays.
The Bukhyeon Overpass, spanning the Gyeongui-Jungang Line railway, connects the previously divided neighborhoods of Chunghyeon-dong and Bukhyeon-dong. The bridge measures 52 meters in length and 20 meters in width, with connecting roads extending the total length to 255 meters.
The project was first planned in 2014 as infrastructure for a housing redevelopment zone but faced repeated delays due to stakeholder conflicts and technical challenges. Residents endured years of inconvenience for school commutes and vehicle travel.
After the current district administration took office, Seodaemun District directly managed the construction. Following cost verification by the Public Procurement Service, the district reduced the budget by approximately 5 billion won from the original 23 billion won, completing the project for around 18 billion won. The technically demanding construction over an active railway line proceeded without major disruptions, thanks to residents' cooperation.
The overpass offers panoramic views of new apartment complexes in Bukhyeon-dong and the Sinchon area, positioning it as a new local landmark.
"Given the long 12-year wait, we will ensure the Bukhyeon Overpass serves not only as a transportation link connecting neighborhoods but also as a bridge fostering community communication," District Mayor Lee Seong-heon said. "I sincerely thank the residents who trusted the district office and waited patiently for so long."
The opening ceremony will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, with vehicle and pedestrian traffic beginning immediately afterward.