I read that after the Korean War in 1950s, a lot of people migrated to Seoul and settled down along the stream in shabby makeshift houses. The accompanying trash, sand, and waste, and deteriorating conditions resulted in an eyesore in the city. The stream was covered up with concrete slowly slowly for 20 years since 1950s, and then an elevated highway was completed in 1970s on top of the stream. This area then became an industrialised and modern area.
30 years later, Cheonggye-cheon was designed right in the heart of the city. Basically it is a man-made stream about 5 km long and meant as a beautification project. Apparently Cheongye-cheong is built on the site of a stream that flowed before the rapid post-war development. $900 million was spent!!! So, obviously I have to come here to soak in this historical sentimental project while in Seoul.
There is walkway on both side of the stream for people to stroll
Admist the high rise building in the modern city
Since it is 5km long, it runs thru quite a lot of spots in the heart of Seoul
Like a compass on the floor to show where we are
Dunno what it means, but looks like a memorial stone
The wind that traps in this 'underground stream' cuts right thru me during the winter .... grrrr
The tree branches stuck to the retaining wall creating a beautiful effect
We decided to exit the Cheongye-cheon at the Dongdaemun area as we read that it is like a very important shopping district.
OK, either we are lost or this place is simply not suitable for me. It is basically like a wholesale market and the merchandise are not display in a 'palatable' manner. The shopkeepers are rude and while walking in Dongdaemun, I have been pushed 5 times ... 5 times!!! OK, I don't care how cheap they can be, I'm leaving.
Seriously, if I work in Seoul Tourism Board, I wouldn't recommend tourist to come here because it showcase the not beautiful side of Koreans which I have only experience in this area. So, no no to Dongdaemun.
Otherwise, Seoul is a very beautiful city.
Location : Seoul, South Korea
Date of travel : Mar 2010, Winter
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