Even With Paths, Residents Had to Detour... Seoul City to Install Elevators in High-Altitude Areas

Five Locations Selected for Installation
Elevators to Be Installed According to Site Characteristics, Including Vertical and Inclined Types
Stairways to Be Renovated Where Installation Is Difficult

Seoul City is enhancing convenience for its citizens by installing elevators in high-altitude areas where movement has been difficult during the peak of summer and winter.

On June 9, Seoul City announced plans to install elevators and other mobility facilities in Junggok-dong, Gwangjin-gu; Hwagok-dong, Gangseo-gu; Bongcheon-dong, Gwanak-gu; Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu; and Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, with completion targeted for 2027. On May 29, a selection committee was convened to determine priority sites for the installation of convenience facilities for residents with mobility challenges in high-altitude areas, and five locations were selected for this year's initial installations.

Image (proposal) after elevator installation at 18-58 Junggok 4-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Mujigae Staircase). Provided by Seoul City

The city plans to complete administrative procedures such as the basic plan and investment review in the second half of this year, begin construction in 2026, and finish installation by the end of 2027. A total of 20 billion won will be invested in the project.

Elevators tailored to local needs will be installed at three sites: Mujigae Staircase in Junggok-dong, Gwangjin-gu; near Yedaum Apartment in Hwagok-dong, Gangseo-gu; and near Bian Children's Park in Bongcheon-dong, Gwanak-gu. In Junggok-dong, a vertical elevator will be installed to replace the steep 37-degree staircase. In Hwagok-dong, an inclined elevator will be installed to improve walking convenience for seniors and other residents with mobility difficulties. In the Bongcheon-dong area, a vertical elevator will be installed along with a deck pathway, creating a "scenic viewpoint" that leverages the characteristics of the high-altitude area.

An inclined elevator is planned for the area around Changsin Station in Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu. This will enhance walking convenience for nearby residents and students, and is also expected to serve as a useful transportation option for tourists visiting Naksan Park and the Seoul Hanyangdoseong Trail. In Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, near Namsan, the installation of both vertical and inclined elevators is being considered so that wheelchair and stroller users can also access the Namsan Footpath.

In areas where installation is difficult due to insufficient space for mobility facilities, stairways will be renovated. Plans include adjusting the width of stair treads and platforms, installing landings, safety railings, temporary rest areas, and anti-slip measures.

Kim Changgyu, Director of Balanced Development at Seoul City, stated, "Freedom of movement is a basic right that should be equally guaranteed to everyone, and the true dignity of a city is realized only when everyone can move freely." He added, "We will continue to discover and expand policies that improve walking convenience for people with mobility challenges and enhance the quality of life for citizens, working toward a 'Seoul where everyone can move comfortably, no matter where they live.'"

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