Cheonggyecheon Stream is an 8.4 km (5.2 mi) waterway and public space flowing through the heart of downtown Seoul from west to east. During the Joseon Dynasty, the stream was known as Gaecheon, meaning open stream.
Over the years, multiple kings ordered numerous refurbishments of the stream that brought national pride.
During the reign of King Taejong, the government strengthened the banks and built bridges across the stream. He ruled from from 1400 to 1418.
Refurbishment work became a national project during the reign of King Yeonjo, who ruled from 1724 to 1776.
During the Japanese occupation, the stream became known as Cheonggyecheon. During this time, attempts to cover it up were unsuccessful.
After the Korean War, people built makeshift houses on the banks of the water. Over the next few years, trash and waste from residents living in the area accumulated. This buildup caused conditions to deteriorate and become an eyesore for the city.
In 1958, construction began to convert the waterway into an elevated highway. By 1976, workers completed the 5.6-kilometer (3.4-mile) concrete highway.
Restoration of Cheonggyecheon Stream
In July 2003, work began to remove the elevated highway and restore Cheonggyecheon to its original beauty.
Work took over two years to complete. The project included pumping 120,000 tons of water back into the dry stream and restoring Gwangtonggyo Bridge and Supyogyo Bridge.
In September 2005, Cheonggyecheon reopened to the public. Today, this natural landmark is a popular destination for tourists and locals who visit to experience natural beauty and wildlife in a large, urban city.
The Wall of Culture is located between Beodeuldari Bridge and Ogansugyo Bridge.
Cheonggyecheon Stream Information
Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Admission
Free
Address
1 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
GPS Coordinates: 37.56918, 126.97920
How to Get Here
Cheonggyecheon Stream can be accessed by multiple subway lines and subways stations.
Line 1
Stations : City Hall, Jonggak, Jongno 3-ga, Jongno 5-ga, Dongdaemun, Sinseoldong
Line 2
Stations : Euljiro 1-ga, Euljiro 3-ga, Euljiro 4-ga, Sindang, Sangwangsibni
Line 3
Stations : Jongno 3-ga
Line 4
Stations : Dongdaemun History & Culture Park
Line 5
Stations : Gwanghwamun
Cheonggyecheon Stream Video
Map
Official Website
https://english.visitseoul.net/area/CheonggyecheonStream/ENP000034
Additional Resources
Klook
Klook offers discounted tickets and reservations for attractions and services in Seoul—from theme parks and museums to tours and transportation.
Viator by TripAdvisor
Book tours, activities, and unique experiences in Seoul—from sightseeing to cultural events and outdoor adventures—offered by local providers.
Rakuten
Save with cashback on hotels and travel services. Sign up and you could earn $30 cashback on your first purchase over $30.
Book Recommendations
Prefer a physical guide? Fodor’s Seoul offers detailed recommendations, maps, and travel tips for the city.
Nearby Sights
Cheonggye Plaza
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…
40th Anniversary Monument of Gojong's Enthronement
The 40th Anniversary Monument of Gojong’s Enthronement was built to honor the 40th anniversary of the crowning of Gojong as the 26th Joseon Dynasty king. Gojong became king on December 13, 1863 at the age of eleven. His father, Heungseon…
Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin
Walking south of the statue of the great King Sejong the Great brings you to the towering statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, also known as Yi Sunshin. The statue is officially named 12.23 Fountain in honor of the 23 battles…
Old Seoul City Hall (Seoul Metropolitan Library)
The Old Seoul City Hall, now the Seoul Metropolitan Library, is a Renaissance style building that served as the city hall of Seoul from 1945 until 2008. After over four years of construction, the new city hall building opened on…
Seoul Anglican Cathedral
Seoul Anglican Cathedral is a Romanesque-style Anglican church founded by Bishop C.J. Corfe in 1922. It is located just west of Deoksugung Palace and Seoul Plaza. Its official name is Cathedral Church of Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Nicholas.…
Seoul Plaza
Seoul Plaza is an oval public space located in front of City Hall in the heart of the city. Once a traffic circle, it is now used for events and festivals. Originally, a large water fountain could be found in…
Last Updated on Aug 5, 2025