[Seoul's Future] Professor Bang Minho of Seoul National University: "Han River Should Be a Space Where History and Literature Flow Together"

Forum Discussion Hosted by Asia Economy on the 29th

Professor Bang Min-ho of Seoul National University’s Department of Korean Language and Literature said on the 29th that “the future Han River should become a space where stories integrating history and literature flow” regarding the Han River as a humanities-based tourism resource.

Professor Bang Min-ho of Seoul National University is discussing the topic "Let's Make the Han River a National Representative Tourist Destination" at the "2023 Seoul Future Forum: The Future of the Han River," hosted by Asia Economy at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, on the 29th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

Professor Bang Min-ho of Seoul National University is discussing the topic "Let's Make the Han River a National Representative Tourist Destination" at the "2023 Seoul Future Forum: The Future of the Han River," hosted by Asia Economy at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, on the 29th.

On the same day, at the panel discussion of the ‘2023 Future of Seoul Forum’ hosted by Asia Economy in Maehwa Hall on the 19th floor of the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, Professor Bang, speaking on the theme of ‘The Future of the Han River,’ proposed, “In Korean society, the Han River is like the aorta surrounding the heart of Seoul. Because the flow of history is deeply intertwined here, it is important to preserve it.”

Professor Bang emphasized that the historical traces of the Han River can enhance its meaning and value. He explained, “The Han River is a site that holds the history of war and national suffering, such as the Imjin War, the Korean War, and the Battle of the Han River. These memories and traces of suffering will increase the significance and value of the Han River.”

Professor Bang also noted that Korean literature and films richly embody the historical and social meanings of the Han River. He explained, “The beauty of the Han River, which cannot be found today, is depicted in literary works such as Janghanmong and Human Classroom, and Korean films like The Host and Kim’s Drifting prove that the Han River is actively introduced as a subject of humanities reflection.”

Finally, regarding past development of the Han River, Professor Bang said, “So far, the Han River has given a strong impression of being developed by erasing sandy beaches and constructing concrete embankments, riverside roads, and bridges. If many designs are combined with the flow of historical and cultural stories here, I expect the Han River to become even more magnificent.”

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