Chilgok-gun Receives Final Approval from the Ministry of Land for Seokjeok Highpass IC Highway Connection

Full-scale Efforts Begin for 2029 Opening Target

Expectations for Improved Transportation Convenience and Revitalized Local Economy

The project is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the overall regional economy, including revitalization of local commercial districts and improvement of the corporate investment environment.

On May 12, Chilgok-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, announced that the 'Seokjeok Highpass IC Installation Project', a long-standing wish of the residents of Seokjeok-eup, had received final approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport for highway connection.

The Seokjeok Highpass IC Installation Project involves a total project cost of 14.8 billion won (6.5 billion won from Korea Expressway Corporation and 8.3 billion won from the county budget) to construct a dedicated Hi-Pass interchange (IC) in the Ponam-ri area of Seokjeok-eup.

Once the project is completed, it is expected that highway accessibility for residents of Seokjeok-eup and neighboring areas will be significantly improved.

This approval for highway connection is the result of multifaceted administrative procedures, including continued consultations with Korea Expressway Corporation, a review of route plans, and a feasibility verification process, following the commencement of a feasibility study in 2022.

In particular, in the economic analysis conducted by Korea Expressway Corporation, the benefit-cost (B/C) ratio was calculated at 1.10, officially recognizing the project's economic viability and feasibility.

Following the connection approval, Chilgok-gun plans to sign a consignment agreement with Korea Expressway Corporation in June and begin full-scale detailed design work starting in July.

Subsequently, after ordering construction in June 2027, the county intends to accelerate the project, aiming for completion and opening in 2029.

When Seokjeok Highpass IC opens, it is expected not only to shorten residents' commuting times and resolve traffic inconveniences, but also to reduce logistics costs by improving the efficiency of industrial complex and cargo movement.

In addition, together with the recently opened Buksam Station, the project is expected to further expand the metropolitan transportation network and make a significant contribution to improving the residential environment and urban competitiveness of Chilgok-gun.

An official from Chilgok-gun stated, "With the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's highway connection approval, we have reached a major turning point in advancing this project," adding, "We will work closely with Korea Expressway Corporation to proceed as scheduled and do our utmost to create a safe and convenient transportation environment that residents can truly appreciate."

The project is anticipated to have a considerable impact on transportation convenience and the daily economy of local residents.