Hwachun County in Gangwon Province will transition to a year-round opening system for three footbridges over the North Han River, which were dismantled during the rainy season. The plan includes enhancing safety facilities and reducing emergency refuge distances to minimize disruptions in the oxygen path tourism route.
According to Hwachun County on October 14, the footbridges in question are the 'Forest Bridge' in Daeyi-ri, the 'Ring Bridge' connecting Georye-ri and Woncheon-ri in Hanam-myeon, and the footbridge in front of the Third Tunnel linking Hari in Hwachun-eup with the Hwachun Sports Park. Previously, these facilities were dismantled in anticipation of heavy rainfall and rising water levels, forcing visitors to take detours until they were reconnected.
The core of the revamp is to extend the usage period while ensuring a swift response to hazardous situations. At the starting point of the 'Forest Bridge', three support columns will be installed for cable reinforcement. The other two bridges will have their docking areas strengthened, and streamlined structures will be added to reduce debris accumulation.
The refuge area for the largest 'Forest Bridge' will be changed from Georye-ri to Wira-ri, shortening the distance to prepare for extreme rainfall and the release of water from the Hwachun Dam. Even with the year-round opening, emergency refuge protocols will remain in place based on weather and water levels.
This transition is significant not only for extending the bridge's usage period but also for enhancing the continuity of riverside tourism. According to Hwachun County's tourism information, the oxygen path forms a large loop from the Seooji-ri lotus field to Ddansan. Visitors can enjoy cycling and riverside walks starting from the entrance of Bungeo Island. Reducing long-term traffic restrictions on the footbridge sections will make it easier for visitors to plan routes according to the seasons.
The three facilities have the potential to connect different tourism demands. The 'Forest Bridge' in Daeyi-ri serves as a walking hub where visitors can appreciate the riverside and forest up close. It has the potential to develop into a seasonal walking course that allows experiences of spring and summer greenery, autumn foliage, and winter snow scenery along the same route. The bridge section over the river is highlighted as a key viewing point on the oxygen path.
The Ring Bridge can serve as a location that combines arboretum visits with photography tourism. The Korea Tourism Organization promotes the ring-shaped bridge at the end of the Georye-ri arboretum trail as a spot for couple photos and proposals. It is also connected to the North Han River bike path, providing a foundation for short visits that can be extended into walking and cycling trips.
The footbridge in front of the Third Tunnel, which connects Hari and the sports park, is notable for linking the town with sports facilities. This can increase the regular use of the riverside by residents and visitors before and after exercise. The county's tourism information lists a park golf course at the sports park, suggesting a potential route that combines recreational sports with riverside walks.
However, the success of extending the opening period in increasing stay duration and local spending will depend on the quality of operations. Clear guidance on accessibility before visits and alternative routes in case of emergencies are necessary. Managing ice and slippery conditions in winter also poses a challenge for establishing a year-round tourist destination. The provided materials did not specify construction costs, completion schedules, or detailed criteria for restrictions and reopening.
Kim Se-hoon, the mayor of Hwachun County, stated, “We will move away from the method of dismantling and reinstalling the North Han River footbridges to create a year-round tourist attraction that can be enjoyed safely. We will do our utmost in safety management and facility maintenance.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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