Seoullo 7017, also known as the Seoul Skygarden, is a unique elevated linear park that reimagines urban infrastructure. It was created by transforming the dilapidated, 938-meter-long Seoul Station Overpass, originally built in 1970 to ease traffic congestion. The project, completed in May 2017, was inspired by New York City’s High Line.
The name itself holds significance: ’70’ references the overpass’s construction year, and ’17’ marks its rebirth in 2017, while also referring to the 17 branching pedestrian pathways. This kilometer-long green space is adorned with approximately 24,000 plants from 228 species, creating a “living dictionary” of Korean flora organized by the Korean alphabet.
Seoullo 7017 offers visitors a tranquil, elevated escape above the city streets, providing panoramic views of Seoul Station and the nearby Namdaemun Market. The park features gardens, rest areas, cafes, and art installations, connecting neighborhoods like Malli-dong with the central station area. It stands as a prominent example of urban regeneration, successfully converting a symbol of auto-centric modernization into a pedestrian-friendly, ecological oasis.
