Jamsu Bridge to Ban All Vehicle Traffic for First Time in 50 Years... Set to Become a 'Pedestrian-Only Bridge'

Transitioning to a "pedestrian-only bridge" where people can walk and linger
All vehicle traffic to be restricted starting October 26; new viewing areas to be added
Pedestrian space to extend to the underpass at the north end of Jamsu Bridge
Limited traffic impact expected; measures to minimize inconvenience to the public

In the second half of 2027, Jamsu Bridge, which has a 50-year history, will be transformed into a pedestrian-only bridge over the Han River in Seoul. The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on October 8 that it would completely restrict vehicle traffic on Jamsu Bridge starting October 26 and begin construction to convert it into a pedestrian-only bridge.

Since opening in 1976 as a bridge for vehicles connecting the northern and southern banks of the Han River, Jamsu Bridge has served as a route for people traveling across the city. In 2008, two lanes of the existing four-lane, two-way road were converted into space for pedestrians and cyclists. More recently, the bridge has also been used as a cultural space where people can enjoy the Han River.

What Jamsu Bridge will look like after it is converted into a pedestrian-only bridge. Seoul Metropolitan Government

This project will completely eliminate vehicle traffic on Jamsu Bridge and repurpose it so people can walk and spend time freely above the Han River. Jamsu Bridge is closer to the water than other bridges across the river, allowing visitors to take in the river, the surrounding scenery and even the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain on Banpo Bridge from nearby. The city plans to make the most of these unique features by creating a pedestrian space where people can enjoy both the natural environment and culture of the Han River.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to complete work on expanding the pedestrian deck and paving by August 2027, and prepare the bridge for a variety of cultural events and festivals. Pedestrians and cyclists will continue to be able to use Jamsu Bridge after construction begins. To minimize inconvenience, the city will provide passageways and separate them from the work areas to ensure safe passage.

However, for about a month and a half during paving work between May and August 2027, pedestrian and bicycle traffic will also be completely restricted to ensure quality and safety. During this period, people will be directed to take a detour via Banpo Bridge.

During the design process, the Seoul Metropolitan Government revised the plans, including removing the elevated pedestrian deck originally included in the competition proposal, after considering factors such as safety during floods. The city has completed consultations with the Han River Basin Environmental Office on the revised design. Transparent decks will be installed at two points along the shipping channel, where vessels pass, allowing people to see the Han River beneath their feet. The city plans to offer a distinctive experience not available on other existing bridges across the Han River, as visitors admire the water flowing below them.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government expects the impact of restricting vehicle traffic on Jamsu Bridge on nearby roads to be limited. A traffic impact analysis found that even if vehicles using Jamsu Bridge detour via Banpo Bridge, traffic speeds would decline only slightly, and the level of traffic service would remain unchanged.

Lim Chungeun, head of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Urban Infrastructure Headquarters, said, "The complete conversion of Jamsu Bridge to pedestrian use, 50 years after it opened, will be an important opportunity to transform the Han River from a route people simply cross into a place where they can have direct experiences, enjoy themselves and spend time. We will do everything possible to ensure pedestrian safety and manage traffic during construction so that everyone can enjoy the Han River safely and comfortably, while minimizing inconvenience to the public."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.