The other day, I had a nice walk through a park. It happened to be over the top of a train station and some of the busiest streets of Seoul, South Korea. Peaceful, serene, and floating over the chaos below.
In the bustling heart of Seoul, where the historic Seoul Station meets the energy of Namdaemun Market, stands one of the city’s most inspiring urban transformations: Seoullo 7017, also known as the Seoul Skygarden or Skypark. This elevated linear park, stretching approximately 1 kilometer (about 0.62 miles) and rising 17 meters above the streets, turns a former highway overpass into a lush, pedestrian-only oasis. It perfectly connects the west side (Seobu) of Seoul Station directly to the markets and beyond.
From Highway to Hanging Garden
Originally built in 1970 as the Seoul Station Overpass to ease traffic congestion during South Korea’s rapid industrialization, the structure served cars for decades. By 2006, safety concerns led to its closure. Rather than demolish it, Seoul’s visionary urban regeneration project transformed it into a public park, reopening on May 20, 2017.
The name Seoullo 7017 cleverly encodes its history: “70” for the construction year, “17” for the 2017 reopening (and its height of 17 meters), while “Seoullo” evokes “Seoul Road” or “Toward Seoul.” Dutch firm MVRDV won the international design competition, creating a “plant village” with 24,085 plants from 228 species arranged in 645 large circular planters. Many follow the order of the Korean alphabet (Hangeul).
A Green Pathway Above the City
Seoullo 7017 features themed sections like Mallidong Square, Rose Square, Toegye-ro Square, Magnolia Square, and Hanyangdoseong-gil (referencing the old Seoul City Wall). Visitors stroll among trees, shrubs, flowers, benches, art installations, and small plazas. It includes 17 access points—stairs, ramps, elevators, and escalators—linking to surrounding streets, subway exits, and attractions.
The park offers panoramic views of Seoul Station’s iconic historic building, the modern skyline, passing trains, and distant landmarks like N Seoul Tower. At night, dramatic lighting (often blue) creates a magical atmosphere with city lights and light trails from traffic below.
Perfect Link to Markets and More
Seoullo 7017 serves as a direct, car-free pedestrian bridge from Seoul Station (near Exits 2, 7, or across the plaza) to Namdaemun Market—one of Seoul’s oldest and liveliest traditional markets, famous for wholesale goods, street food, fashion, and souvenirs. It also connects easily to Sungnyemun Gate (Namdaemun), Myeongdong shopping district, Deoksugung Palace, and parts of the Seoul City Wall trail.
A leisurely walk can take 20–30 minutes end-to-end, making it ideal for combining sightseeing, shopping, and people-watching.
Visitor Tips
- Access: Free and open 24/7. Best reached via Seoul Station (Lines 1, 4, Gyeongui-Jungang, AREX) or Hoehyeon Station (Line 4).
- Best Times: Daytime for market visits and photos; evenings for illuminated views and fewer crowds.
- Amenities: Cafes, rest areas, occasional events, exhibitions, and family activities (like trampolines).
- Practicalities: Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly in many sections. Stay on paths and respect the plants.
More than a walkway, Seoullo 7017 symbolizes Seoul’s shift toward greener, people-centered urban spaces—revitalizing a once-divided area while honoring its past. Whether you’re a tourist exploring markets or a local seeking fresh air above the traffic, it delivers unforgettable views and a peaceful escape in the city center.
Next time you’re near Seoul Station, step up to Seoullo 7017—you’ll see the city from a whole new perspective.