Reviving Urban Waterways: Lessons from the Cheonggyecheon Restoration Project
By Joshua Fassnacht
Keywords: Cheonggyecheon, Restoration, Ecosystems, History, Change
Summary
In order to restore a 5.8-kilometer stream in central Seoul, the Cheonggyecheon River Restoration Project removed elevated roads and concrete pavement between the years 2003 and 2005 (Jeon & Kang, 2019). Discussions over this project's environmental effects became contentious; some saw it as a successful eco-friendly effort, while others criticized it as a man-made feature (Jeon & Kang, 2019). The restoration project, as examined in this case study, illuminates the intricate interactions between biological, cultural, technological, and environmental dynamics in urban ecosystems that are changing quickly (Temperton et al., 2014). Finding the balance between human intervention and natural factors posed a significant challenge for the project, particularly concerning water flow, flora and fauna choices, and historical references during the restoration process (Jeon & Kang, 2019). Scholarly assessments offer varying perspectives, with some praising the project for urban regeneration and environmental improvements, while others critique its departure from true restoration principles. The Cheonggyecheon's importance in social development and urban planning is evident from its history. Seoul's objectives and identity had to be reevaluated in light of the restoration project's transition to a post-industrial future (Jeon & Kang, 2019). The restoration's effects on environment and ecology include improved water quality, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and increased biodiversity (Kim, 2007). Notwithstanding disagreements, the project is a well known illustration of effective urban rehabilitation that shows the complex relationships between ecological, cultural, and environmental aspects. The project's contemporary conditions underscore the nuanced interpretation of "restoration" and the challenges in balancing history, technology, and nature. The restoration aimed to improve urban safety, promote ecological restoration, and revitalize the city center while accommodating urban expansion and preserving historical heritage. Looking ahead, the Cheonggyecheon restoration sets a precedent for global urban development, emphasizing the importance of ecosystem restoration in sustainability efforts. While challenges remain, the project demonstrates the potential for integrating technology, culture, and nature to create pragmatic and sustainable urban environments. Ultimately, the Cheonggyecheon River Restoration Project exemplifies the complexities and achievements of restoring urban waterways, offering valuable lessons for future initiatives in urban development, the revival of urban waterways, and environmental conservation– some lessons being: Finding the right balance between human intervention and natural processes is crucial; understanding and addressing diverse, multifaceted perspectives are essential for successful implementation and acceptance of a project; recognizing the historical and cultural significance of a site informs the restoration process and contributes to reshaping urban identity; The concept of restoration can have differing interpretations and today requires a nuanced approach that considers historical, technological, environmental and ecological factors; and the Cheonggyecheon restoration project demonstrates the feasibility of bringing nature into cities and restoring deteriorated waterways.
Ecological Genealogy
Historically, the Cheonggyecheon played a crucial role in Seoul's urban planning and development, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (Jeon & Kang, 2019). It served as both a defining geographical feature and a functional component of the city's infrastructure, providing drainage and sanitation systems. However, over time, the area surrounding the stream became synonymous with poverty and pollution, leading to neglect and subsequent urbanization efforts during the colonial and post-independence periods (Jeon & Kang, 2019). The 1960s saw a significant shift in the Cheonggyecheon's landscape, as concrete was laid over the stream to mitigate flooding and accommodate urban expansion. This period of industrialization symbolized South Korea's modernization efforts but also brought environmental degradation and social disparities (Jeon & Kang, 2019). Labor movements were centered within the Cheonggyecheon district, emphasizing the conflicts between social justice and economic progress. At the turn of the year 2000, talks about returning the Cheonggyecheon to its natural state surfaced amid environmental consciousness and urban redevelopment initiatives (Jeon & Kang, 2019). This constituted a turning point in Seoul's transition to a post-industrial future and forced a reassessment of the city's mission and vision. The restoration project sought to reinvigorate the city core and reestablish a connection with historical heritage in addition to improving environmental quality.
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Present Tense
In addition to changing the physical landscape of central Seoul, the Cheonggyecheon River restoration project has sparked a change in the city's cultural and environmental consciousness. The Cheonggyecheon, which offers a complex place that integrates history, ecology, and modern urban living, stands as a monument to the transforming force of restoration efforts in urban environments today. Diverse interpretations of the term "restoration" have been offered by stakeholders, indicating varying perspectives regarding the future of Cheonggyecheon (Jeon & Kang, 2019). Some define restoration as a return to a pure state of harmony with nature, while others see it as a forward-thinking fusion of technology and environment. The planners and designers tasked with rethinking the river's route faced a considerable difficulty in balancing these opinions. The accomplished result of the Cheonggyecheon Restoration project is a landscape that has been hybridized to combine aspects of technology, culture, and nature. The river, which is split into different sections that signify different degrees of ecological integration and urban influence, represents Seoul's complex urban fabric and provides pockets of natural refuge amid the busy cityscape. The restoration process's tiered method guarantees that the Cheonggyecheon will continue to be a thriving metropolitan area and a refuge for biodiversity. Since its restoration, the Cheonggyecheon has experienced notable changes from a biological and environmental perspective. The river ecology has been restored by the reintroduction of more than 200 native plant species and the improvement of water habitats, drawing a wide variety of flora and wildlife. As noted by 김혜주, 김성환, & 김송이 (2006) as well as Kim and Jung (2019), monitoring activities have revealed an increase in fish species and an improvement in the quality of the water, indicating that the project has been successful in reducing the loss of biodiversity and restoring ecosystem services (Temperton et al., 2014). Culturally speaking, Seoul's dedication to urban regeneration and environmental sustainability is symbolized by the Cheonggyecheon River. Its transformation from an abandoned riverbed to a bustling linear park has drawn praise from all around the world, luring tourists to enjoy its singular fusion of historical value and natural beauty. Its designation as a cultural heritage site is further enhanced by the addition of rebuilt bridges and cultural sites, which strengthen ties to the city's past while embracing its future.
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Future Trajectory
The Cheonggyecheon River restoration serves as an example for prospective global urban development and ecological restoration projects. Its accomplishments demonstrate the transforming power of human innovation and collaboration in restoring urban waterways and regaining natural heritage in the middle of a modern urbanization. Ecosystem restoration is essential to ensuring the planet's sustainability in the face of growing human activity and environmental issues, as Aronson and Alexander (2013) bring forward. The Cheonggyecheon Restoration project is a prime example of how urban ecosystems may flourish and live in harmony with contemporary urban infrastructure. It provides important insights for cities throughout the world that are facing comparable problems with urban decay and environmental degradation. The accomplishments of the Cheonggyecheon project have garnered international recognition, which highlights the growing acceptance and adoption of ecological restoration as a crucial element of environmental management and urban development. According to Aaron and Alexander (2013), the project's engagement in international deliberations, such as those held under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, underscores its significance as a global paradigm for sustainable development and conservation initiatives. But much as we celebrate its successes, Aronson and Alexander (2013) stress that we must approach future restoration projects with prudence and pragmatism. The Cheonggyecheon project is an exceptional instance of what can be accomplished with tenacious work and visionary leadership, but it also serves as a timely reminder of the difficulties and unknowns that come with undertaking extensive restoration work. In the years to come, the Cheonggyecheon restoration project's legacy must act as a source of motivation as well as a constant reminder of the dedication needed to maintain urban ecosystems and advance environmental resilience. Sustained funding for science, technology, and community involvement will be necessary to manage the intricate relationships between ecological restoration and urban development in a world that is constantly changing. Furthermore, the Cheonggyecheon Restoration project provides insightful information about the complex interactions among ecological, cultural, and environmental values that shape urban environments. Future restoration projects can pave new routes toward developing dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive urban settings by accepting its hybridized nature and utilizing the synergies between technology, culture, and environment.
References
Aronson, J., & Alexander, S. (2013). Ecosystem Restoration is Now a Global Priority: Time to Roll up our Sleeves. Restoration Ecology, 21(3), 293–296. https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12011
Cornell University. (2017). Braess’ Paradox – The Cheonggyecheon Restoration Project. Cornell University. https://blogs.cornell.edu/info2040/2017/09/14/braess-paradox-the-cheonggyecheon-restoration-project/
Jeon, C., & Kang, Y. (2019). Restoring and Re-Restoring the Cheonggyecheon: Nature, Technology, and History in Seoul, South Korea. Environmental History, 24(4), 736–765. https://doi.org/10.1093/envhis/emz032
Kim, G. C. (2007). Challenges for environmentally sustainable transport in Seoul. Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, 46, 109–123. https://s-space.snu.ac.kr/bitstream/10371/90679/1/6.Challenges_for_Environmentally_Sustainable_Transport_in_Seoul.pdf
Kim, H., & Jung, Y. (2019). Is Cheonggyecheon sustainable? A systematic literature review of a stream restoration in Seoul, South Korea. Sustainable Cities and Society, 45, 59–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2018.11.018
Seoul Tourism Organization. (2018). Cheonggyecheon (Cheonggye Stream). Seoul Tourism Organization. https://english.visitseoul.net/walking-tour/Cheonggyecheon-1/ENN000636
Temperton, V. M., Higgs, E., Choi, Y. D., Allen, E. B., Lamb, D., Lee, C. S., Harris, J. A., Hobbs, R. J., & Zedler, J. B. (2014). Flexible and Adaptable Restoration: An Example from South Korea. Restoration Ecology, 22(3), 271–278. https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12095
김혜주, 김성환, & 김송이. (2006). Changes in Water Quality, Flora and Vegetation of Cheonggye Stream Before, During and After its Restoration. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 20(2), 235–258. https://www.kci.go.kr/kciportal/ci/sereArticleSearch/ciSereArtiView.kci?sereArticleSearchBean.artiId=ART001121030
Cornell University. (2017). Braess’ Paradox – The Cheonggyecheon Restoration Project. Cornell University. https://blogs.cornell.edu/info2040/2017/09/14/braess-paradox-the-cheonggyecheon-restoration-project/
Jeon, C., & Kang, Y. (2019). Restoring and Re-Restoring the Cheonggyecheon: Nature, Technology, and History in Seoul, South Korea. Environmental History, 24(4), 736–765. https://doi.org/10.1093/envhis/emz032
Kim, G. C. (2007). Challenges for environmentally sustainable transport in Seoul. Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, 46, 109–123. https://s-space.snu.ac.kr/bitstream/10371/90679/1/6.Challenges_for_Environmentally_Sustainable_Transport_in_Seoul.pdf
Kim, H., & Jung, Y. (2019). Is Cheonggyecheon sustainable? A systematic literature review of a stream restoration in Seoul, South Korea. Sustainable Cities and Society, 45, 59–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2018.11.018
Seoul Tourism Organization. (2018). Cheonggyecheon (Cheonggye Stream). Seoul Tourism Organization. https://english.visitseoul.net/walking-tour/Cheonggyecheon-1/ENN000636
Temperton, V. M., Higgs, E., Choi, Y. D., Allen, E. B., Lamb, D., Lee, C. S., Harris, J. A., Hobbs, R. J., & Zedler, J. B. (2014). Flexible and Adaptable Restoration: An Example from South Korea. Restoration Ecology, 22(3), 271–278. https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12095
김혜주, 김성환, & 김송이. (2006). Changes in Water Quality, Flora and Vegetation of Cheonggye Stream Before, During and After its Restoration. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 20(2), 235–258. https://www.kci.go.kr/kciportal/ci/sereArticleSearch/ciSereArtiView.kci?sereArticleSearchBean.artiId=ART001121030