선유교 – 선유도 Seonyugo (Bridge) in Seoul

Seonyugyo (Bridge)

Personally, I’ve always wanted to go here. I heard it is really gorgeous – more than the photos show. I haven’t been there myself, but I wanted to post this information for anyone else interested. Hmmm, when to go…? ^^

About

Seonyugyo (Bridge) is Hangang’s (River) first pedestrian footbridge built on Seonyudo (an island in the Hangang), and Seonyu means “spending time idly in the scenic haven”. The bridge, which was designed by French architect Rudy Ricciotti, was built as part of a joint project with France to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. It is also known as Rainbow Bridge since the four colored lights; red, yellow, green and blue, mingle together by night. It can be conveniently accessed as the bridge connects to Hangang Park, and it has become Hangang’s latest landmark, attracting a large number of visitors.

A bridge au naturel

Seonyugyo is located in Seonyudo Park, Korea’s first ecological park, which was created by converting an old water treatment plant.
The rainbow-shaped bridge crossing the Hangang was built using innovative materials, such as ultra-high-strength concrete, for a light and sleek appearance, and eco-friendly wood in the flooring and guardrails, which bestows a natural and soft feel.
The bridge provides such beautiful views of the surrounding landscape that it is an ideal place to take a stroll. To the east, one can admire the scenery of the Hangang as well as the National Assembly; to the west, the lower reaches of the river including the Seongsandaegyo (a bridge over the river connecting Mangwon-dong, Mapo-gu with Yangpyeong-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu); to the north, the ridges of Bukhansan (Mt.) and World Cup Stadium and to the northeast, even the N Seoul Tower (or Namsan Tower) can be viewed at a glance. Stopping on the middle section of the bridge, at the highest point of its sweeping arc, makes for an especially beautiful viewing spot.

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  A view of Seonyugyo seen from Seonyudo Park

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  The floor and guardrails of the bridge are made of eco-friendly wood giving a soft feel

The splendid transformation at night created by four colored lights

The views of Seonyugyo by day are lovely enough, but at dusk the experience is truly romantic. The whole bridge is lit up, and its arch illuminated by four swathes of color – red, yellow, green and blue. This beautiful and harmonious glow tinges the bridge’s surroundings with mellow, iridescent color. A nighttime stroll along the bridge can be easily enjoyed, since lights are installed at two-meter intervals along the guardrail.

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  A night view from Seonyugyo

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  A night view from Seonyugyo

Situated on Seonyudo, the Design Seoul Gallery is an exhibition hall that was opened by renovating an old water pumping station. It features displays on the ecosystem and geological features of the Hangang basin, a themed map of the river, and aspects of life along the river, including people’s livelihoods, shamanism and cultural remains found along the riverside. The gallery also comprises a multimedia information gallery, resting area and meeting place with a picture window.

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  A nightscape of Seonyugyo

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  Seonyudo Park

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  The former water treatment plant remains

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  The former Seonyu water treatment plant remains

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  The Design Seoul Gallery

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  A greenhouse and the water treatment plant

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  The various Roses of Sharon (the national flower of Korea) flowerpots

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