Cheonggye Plaza is a public square in central Seoul that commemorates the restoration of the Cheonggyecheon Stream which was once an elevated highway. The plaza is located at the head of the stream which runs 8.4 kilometers (5.2 miles) through the heart of Seoul.
The area covers almost 2,314 square meters (25,000 square feet). Its length is 160 meters (525 feet) while its width is 50 meters (164 feet).
The design of stonework located here is based on a colorful Korean wrapping cloth known as a bojagi.
The highlight of the plaza is a colorful red and blue sculpture known as the Spring Sculpture. It was created by Coosje Van Bruggen and Claes Oldenburg and today is an important icon of Seoul and for the restoration of Cheonggyecheon Stream.
Also located here is a miniature model of the stream. It gives visitors a bird eyes view of the Cheonggyecheon Stream which was once a concrete highway.
The stream at the plaza also features a 4 meter (13 feet), two-tiered waterfall. On each side of the waterfall are wishing wells created using eight stones from each of the eight provinces in Korea.
The plaza is a popular spot for locals and tourists to go for walks on weekends and in the summer. The plaza is also a popular location for protests and political gatherings.
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Spring Sculpture
The Spring Sculpture is a piece of art located in Cheonggye Plaza near Cheonggyecheon Stream. It represents new life for the once decrepit stream area. The sculpture was created by Dutch artist Coosje Van Bruggen and Swedish artist Claes Oldenburg.
The colorful ribbons that stream down the side are inspired by the traditional dress of Korean women. The colors of blue and red represent the unity of opposites in nature and human spirit. The shape was inspired by a shell rising up like a pagoda.
Today, the sculpture is an important symbol of nature in Seoul. It is also an icon for the restoration of Cheonggyecheon Stream area.
Cheonggye Plaza Hours
24 hoursAdmission
FreeHow to get to Cheonggye Plaza
Option 1
Take Subway Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 5).
Continue for 60 meters to the plaza on the left.
Option 2
Take Subway Line 1 or Line 2 to City Hall Station (Exit 4). Continue for 300 meters to reach the plaza on the right.
Map
Additional Resources
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