Seongsu Bridge, Cantilever bridge over Han River in Seoul, South Korea
Seongsu Bridge spans the Han with a total length of almost 1200 meters (over 3800 feet), linking Seongdong District to Gangnam on the opposite riverbank. The crossing consists of multiple vehicle lanes and features a cantilever design that requires no supporting piers within the riverbed.
Work on the crossing began in the mid-1970s when Seoul made large investments in transport infrastructure. Completion of the project came in 1979 after four years of construction.
Access through transit hubs around the river allows locals to use the riverside park and paths for morning runs or picnics. On weekends, groups gather for cycling or walking and take advantage of the green areas along the banks.
Several bus routes run along both ends, and subway stations are within walking distance, making it easy for pedestrians to travel from one district to another. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, so crossing early in the morning or late evening offers a more relaxed experience.
The technique of freestanding spans was relatively uncommon in South Korea at the time of completion and brought new ideas for building further river crossings. Today, the structure serves as a reference for engineering students studying modern structural solutions in urban settings.
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