Seonyudo, River island and ecological park in Seoul, South Korea.
Seonyudo is a 0.11 square kilometer island in the Han River featuring gardens, water features, and forest sections built from recycled materials throughout. The design brings together different zones where water and vegetation shape the landscape.
From 1978 to 2000, this island operated as a water treatment facility supplying drinking water to southwestern Seoul. After that period, it was redesigned into a park with an entirely different purpose.
The name Seonyudo means "island where Taoist hermits play," reflecting how Korean traditions connect spirituality with nature. Visitors can sense this spiritual link while walking through the gardens and wooded sections scattered across the space.
The island opens daily from 6 AM to midnight and is reached through the Seonyugyo Bridge, which connects to Yanghwa Hangang River Park. Wear comfortable shoes, as there are several paths to explore throughout the space.
The park retained and incorporated elements from the former water treatment plant, including cement structures now covered with growing vegetation. This blend demonstrates how old industrial spaces can be transformed into new natural landscapes.
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