Planting Green Dreams Along Anyangcheon: The Ambitious Urban Garden Project Unites Eight Cities

A Green Vision for Anyangcheon: What’s Happening?

Did you know that Anyangcheon, a river winding through both Gyeonggi Province and Seoul, is at the heart of one of Korea’s most ambitious urban greening projects? On June 23, 2025, leaders from eight local governments—Gunpo, Gwangmyeong, Anyang, Uiwang, Geumcheon, Guro, Yeongdeungpo, and Yangcheon—gathered at Geumcheon District Office for their regular council meeting and a symbolic tree-planting ceremony. This event wasn’t just a formality; it marked a renewed collective promise to transform Anyangcheon into a vibrant, sustainable urban garden that brings together millions of residents across city borders.

The Power of Collaboration: Who’s Involved?

This project is unique because it unites four Gyeonggi cities (Gunpo, Gwangmyeong, Anyang, Uiwang) and four Seoul districts (Geumcheon, Guro, Yeongdeungpo, Yangcheon) in a rare show of intercity cooperation. Each city’s mayor or deputy, including Gunpo’s Ha Eun-ho and Gwangmyeong’s Park Seung-won, attended the event. They discussed past achievements and mapped out new strategies for the future. The meeting also saw the election of Geumcheon’s mayor as the new council president and Gunpo’s mayor as vice president, signaling fresh leadership for the next two years.

Why Anyangcheon? The River’s Cultural and Ecological Role

For those unfamiliar with Korea’s geography, Anyangcheon is a 32-kilometer river that starts in Uiwang’s Baegunsan Mountain and flows through several cities before merging with the Han River. It’s not just a waterway; it’s a vital green corridor that supports wildlife, recreation, and community life. The riverbanks are home to cherry blossom trails, eco-parks, and cycling paths, drawing families, nature lovers, and city dwellers alike. The project aims to enhance these features while preserving the river’s natural ecosystem.

From Local Garden to National Landmark: The Project’s Ambitions

The ultimate goal? To elevate Anyangcheon from a regional park to a nationally recognized garden. The plan is methodical: after securing approval for a Gyeonggi Provincial Garden in 2025, the project aims for official registration in 2026 and national designation by 2029. Each city will contribute themed gardens reflecting local identity—Gwangmyeong is building family and therapy gardens, Anyang is focusing on birdwatching and healing spaces, Gunpo is creating rest areas for workers and residents, and Uiwang is highlighting the river’s natural source. The design philosophy emphasizes minimal construction and maximum preservation of the landscape.

Community Voices: What Are People Saying?

Online communities like Theqoo, DC Inside, and Naver are buzzing with reactions. Many locals express pride in the project’s scale and environmental focus, saying it’s about time the river received this level of care. Some comments highlight the need for more citizen participation and better facilities, while others worry about bureaucratic delays or ecological impact. A popular sentiment on Instiz: 'If done right, Anyangcheon could become Seoul’s Central Park.' Meanwhile, skepticism remains about whether intercity rivalries might slow progress. Still, the overall tone is hopeful, with many cheering for a greener, more connected urban space.

Cultural Insights: Why Does This Matter in Korea?

Urban rivers in Korea have a complicated history. Many were neglected or polluted during rapid industrialization, only to be rediscovered as vital green lungs for dense cities. Projects like Cheonggyecheon in downtown Seoul have shown how river restoration can transform urban life, boost tourism, and foster civic pride. Anyangcheon’s project is seen as the next big step—especially since it involves not just one city but a coalition of eight, each with its own political and cultural flavor. For international fans, this is a window into how Korean cities are reimagining themselves for a more sustainable future.

What’s Next? The Road Ahead

The June 23rd tree-planting at Geumnae Central Park was more than a photo op. Leaders and citizens planted commemorative trees, symbolizing their long-term commitment to the river’s future. The project will now ramp up public engagement, seek national funding, and continue to refine its ecological and cultural vision. As Gunpo’s mayor said, planting a single tree today is a promise for a better tomorrow—one that will grow with the community for generations.

How to Get Involved or Visit

If you’re in Korea, Anyangcheon is easy to access via public transport, and many of its parks and trails are open year-round. The project’s progress is regularly updated on city websites and local blogs, with volunteer opportunities and community events for those who want to take part. For international visitors, this is a living example of Korea’s urban innovation—so don’t miss a stroll along the river if you’re in the area!