Seoullo 7017 is an elevated walkway transformed from an old overpass, offering city views and green spaces in the heart of Seoul.
What was once an aging overpass above Seoul Station has been transformed into an elevated park where nature, architecture, and urban life intersect. Seoullo 7017 is now a well-known example of urban regeneration in Seoul, offering locals and tourists a unique experience of walking above the city streets while surrounded by greenery.
From Overpass to Pedestrian Park
Seoullo 7017 was originally built in 1970 as an overpass for vehicles near Seoul Station. After decades of service, it was closed to traffic and reimagined as a public pedestrian walkway. In 2017, it reopened under the name “7017” – symbolizing the year it was built (1970) and the year it was reopened (2017).
This 1-kilometer-long walkway connects various districts including Seoul Station, Malli-dong, Namdaemun Market, and Hoehyeon. Inspired by New York’s High Line, Seoullo 7017 is a model of urban reuse, turning a former transportation infrastructure into a place for people to walk, rest, and connect with the city.
Nature and Urban Design in Harmony
Walking along Seoullo 7017, visitors encounter over 24,000 plants, including 200 different species native to Korea. The layout of the park was designed not only for walking but also for observing and enjoying seasonal changes in plant life. Each section of the walkway offers different themes and plant groupings.
Several resting areas with benches and shaded spots allow for short breaks and city viewing. The surrounding views of buildings, streets, and nearby landmarks provide a unique contrast between nature and the urban environment. At night, the walkway transforms with the addition of LED lighting, creating a soft and atmospheric landscape that highlights the structural beauty of the park.
Small cafes and souvenir kiosks along the path offer refreshments and gifts, supporting longer visits. These features together make Seoullo 7017 more than just a trail – it functions as a cultural and ecological space within the heart of Seoul.
How to Get There
Seoullo 7017 is easily accessible via public transportation. Seoul Station, serviced by Subway Line 1 and Line 4, offers a direct entrance near Exit 2. Because the park connects with nearby attractions such as Namdaemun Market, Seoul Museum of Art, and Namsan Park, it serves well as part of a larger day itinerary.
Changing Atmosphere by Time of Day
Seoullo 7017 presents different experiences depending on the time of day. In the morning, the path is calm and peaceful, ideal for a quiet walk or a relaxing cup of coffee. During the daytime, the space becomes livelier as visitors and locals pass by. In the evening, the park’s lighting design turns it into a scenic spot with a distinct nighttime charm.
Sunset is particularly popular for photography, as the elevated view offers wide skies and city lights merging into a picturesque backdrop. The openness of the walkway gives a panoramic view of the surrounding urban landscape.
Useful Visitor Information
Though the trail is generally flat, the 1km length and occasional slopes suggest wearing comfortable shoes. Seasonal flower displays and small-scale festivals are occasionally held, so checking the schedule in advance on official websites is recommended.
Since Namdaemun Market is within walking distance, combining a visit to Seoullo with shopping and traditional food experiences can enrich your itinerary.
A Model of Urban Regeneration
Seoullo 7017 is more than a tourist destination; it is a symbol of Seoul’s evolving urban identity. Transforming an obsolete overpass into a functional and inviting pedestrian space illustrates the city’s shift from car-centered infrastructure to a people-first approach.
It draws interest from those fascinated by urban planning, landscape architecture, and sustainable development. At the same time, it welcomes everyday visitors seeking a place to walk, rest, and experience the city from a different perspective. As one of Seoul’s most notable urban regeneration projects, Seoullo 7017 demonstrates how thoughtful design can bring new life to old structures.
[You May Also Like] Namdaemun Market: Where Seoul’s Tradition Meets Budget-Friendly Shopping
Urban Walkway in Central Seoul: Seoullo 7017
Combining greenery, architecture, and open city views, Seoullo 7017 is a modern urban park that captures both Seoul’s past and its forward-looking transformation. Whether you're a traveler exploring the city or a resident looking for a new place to walk, this elevated park offers a refreshing perspective on Seoul’s urban landscape.