Five Neglected Small Plots in Seoul Transformed into Green Rest Areas in Just 72 Hours

Closing Ceremony of the '72-Hour Project' on the 23rd... Providing Healing to Citizens in the COVID-19 Era

1252-2 Jaturi Green Area, Sanggye-dong, Nowon-gu

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on the 23rd that through the '72-Hour Project,' five small parcels of land owned by the city or district were transformed into green resting spaces within 72 hours, thanks to various ideas from citizens.

The 72-Hour Project is a creative activity where citizens and experts collaborate for 72 hours to revitalize small spaces and secure their public value, creating a 'Lively Seoul.' Since 2012, a total of 78 spaces have been developed over nine years, contributing to alleviating the lack of parks and green areas.

This year, five teams totaling 75 participants worked on ▲ one vacant lot along the Jungnangcheon Stream walking trail (around 72-1, Songjeong-dong, Seongdong-gu) ▲ two small parcels of land in residential and roadside areas (around 276-15, Sangbong-dong, Jungnang-gu and 1252-2, Sanggye-dong, Nowon-gu) ▲ one vacant lot within a park (around 247-4, Bulgwang-dong, Eunpyeong-gu) ▲ and one publicly open space in front of the courthouse (around 313-1, Sinjeong-dong, Yangcheon-gu).

Although unexpected situations such as complaints from nearby residents occurred during the work, the teams showed greater unity through the process, and residents did not hesitate to praise and encourage those who passionately created the works while sweating in the hot weather, according to Seoul City.

On the 23rd at 3 p.m., a closing ceremony will be held in the multipurpose hall on the 8th floor of the Seoul City Hall main building, where the five participating teams will gather to introduce the project process and completed works. Additionally, through expert evaluation on creativity, durability, harmony, sincerity, and maintenance, one grand prize team (8 million KRW), two excellence award teams (4 million KRW each), and two encouragement award teams (2 million KRW each) will be selected. Separately, one popularity award team and one UCC award team (1 million KRW each) will be chosen and awarded certificates and prize money.

Choi Yoon-jong, Director of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Green City Bureau, said, "I applaud the passionate challenges and enthusiasm of the participants who transformed neglected spaces into vibrant ones despite COVID-19 and the 40-day long rainy season. I also thank the local residents who provided much cooperation and support to ensure the project proceeded safely."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.