Yongsan-gu Reimagines Noksapyeong Square as a New Hub for Itaewon Tourism

Landscape Design Project Completed Including Play Area
Additional Media Installations to Be Added by Year-End

Yongsan-gu in Seoul (District Mayor Park Hee-young) announced on July 28 that it has completed the landscape design project for Noksapyeong Square, which is set to become the starting point and symbolic hub of Itaewon tourism.

This project was selected for the 2024 Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's Special Tourist Zone Revitalization Support Project. A total of 385 million won (50% national funding, 50% district funding) was invested over seven months starting from December last year, transforming Noksapyeong Square into a space for everyday relaxation.

Itaewon Tourist District Noksapyeong Square Landscape Design. Provided by Yongsan-gu.

The newly renovated Noksapyeong Square features an anti-slip (MMA) play area paved in vibrant green tones and curved pergola-style shaded shelters installed throughout the space, which catch the eye. A tourist information map illustrated with graphic art and a media wall containing digital content also bring energy to the area.

Previously, Noksapyeong Square lacked seating, but now benches have been installed so that tourists and citizens visiting Itaewon can enjoy a place to rest. In particular, four swing-type chairs installed under the shade structures offer both relaxation and fun.

At night, the combination of media art, gobo lighting, and shaded shelter lighting creates a romantic yet safe environment. On weekends, various events will be held, transforming the square into an urban playground.

This year, the district was selected for the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's competition for the second consecutive year, and additional media art installations are planned for Noksapyeong Square by the end of the year. In addition to the newly created landscape design, these media installations are intended to enhance the Itaewon brand value and increase the length of stay for nighttime tourists.

In October this year, the Itaewon Observatory across from Noksapyeong Square will also be unveiled as a new cultural and rest area incorporating media art. A wall fountain and natural stone stands will be newly installed along the wall, and a new deck path will be built to separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic, ensuring a safe walking environment.

Park Hee-young, Mayor of Yongsan-gu, stated, "Noksapyeong Square will become more than just a place to rest; it will be a space that symbolizes 'Itaewon tourism starts here.' We will continue to add diverse tourism content and develop it into a vibrant cultural space that all visitors can enjoy."

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