SEOUL, April 25 (AJU PRESS) - The Seoul city government is pushing for a major development plan for the Han River and its waterfront areas, including the construction of a floating hotel, a water-ski slope, urban marinas and various leisure activity facilities.
Mayor Oh Se-hoon announced the initiative, dubbed "River City Seoul," on Wednesday as part of efforts to revitalize the river into a vibrant hub of leisure and tourism by 2030.
A total of 550 billion won ($400 million) will be injected into the project – 236.6 billion won from the government and 313.5 billion won from the private sector, Oh said.
The city government plans to build a floating hotel on the river near the island of Yeouido, complete with various amenities. The project will be carried out by private builders and construction will begin in 2026. Floating eateries will be created to allow visitors to explore various types of food from across the world.
The project also includes the establishment of a water ski zone, as well as the construction of urban marinas in Ichon and Jamsil to offer berthing services. A passenger terminal, which connects the Han River and the West Sea, is slated for construction in the second half of 2026 in Yeouido.
The city also plans to open an iconic windsurfing park in the eastern riverside district of Seoul to the public and organize various cultural events, including boat parades and movie screenings.
"We will transform the Han River into a space for daily activities, not just a place for special occasions or weekends, but a leisure hub for eating, sleeping, working, and relaxation where anyone can reflect on themselves," the mayor said.
The city expects the project to yield about 925.6 billion won in annual economic benefits and generate 6,800 new jobs.
In September 2023, Seoul City unveiled a blueprint for a 199-seater commuter boat also known as a "water bus" that will carry passengers along the Han River. Commercialization of the water bus is scheduled for 2024.
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