Seonyudo Island Protected Area

Seonyudo Island, located in the Han River within the city limits of Seoul, South Korea, is a celebrated example of adaptive reuse and urban ecological restoration. Historically, the island served industrial purposes, functioning as a water filtration plant and industrial facility starting in the early 20th century. Following deindustrialization, the site was transformed into an ecological park that opened to the public in 2002, preserving many of its industrial structures while integrating diverse habitats and recreational amenities. The 9.37-hectare island is characterized by its beautifully maintained botanical gardens featuring aquatic plants, greenhouses, and various thematic gardens including a water playground, eco-bridge, sunken garden, and a greenhouse showcasing over 60,000 plants. The park is renowned for combining urban nature with interpretive exhibits highlighting environmental sustainability, water purification processes, and habitat conservation. Ecologically, Seonyudo Island supports native bird species and aquatic life within the clean water basins derived from the old filtration pools. Visitors enjoy walking and cycling along the Han River trails, engaging in photography at the scenic waterfront viewpoints, and learning about ecological restoration through interactive exhibits. Its urban location makes it an accessible natural retreat offering serene river views amid the bustling metropolis. Seonyudo Island is also noted for its night illuminations and seasonal flower displays, attracting both locals and tourists seeking green space, cultural insights, and leisure activities next to Seoul's river corridor.