Photo Exhibition of the Bridges of Hangang River – from Docks to Bridges
- Illuminating the history of the Bridges of Hangang River built close to docks and ports from Gwangnaru to Yanghwajin
- History of the ordeals of bridges of Hangang River and stories about bridge construction and name changes will be exhibited with related photos
□ Historically, Hangang River has been a life line flowing through the central parts of the Korean Peninsula from east to west, and its value has been recognized since old times. There were 11 docks and ports including Gwangnaru, Dumopo, and Hangangjin along Gyeonggang River adjacent to Hanyang in the Joseon Dynasty from Gwangnaru to Yanghwajin.
○ These docks and ports were strategic points which acted as commercial hubs, through which main roads linking Hanyang with various parts of the country passed. The road to Gwangju of Gyeonggi-do begins at Dongdaemun Gate and passes by Wangsimni before passing through Salgoji Bridge and Gwangjin; the road to Yongin passes through Hangangjin from Gwanghuimun Gate. Just as the road to Gwacheon crosses Dongjakjin from Namdaemun Gate (Sungnyemun Gate), all main roads leading to the regions south of Hanyang had to cross Hangang River.
□ As the means of land transport developed in modern times, bridges replaced docks and ports that had connected the south and north sides of Hangang River. Numerous bridges were built, starting with the Hangang Railroad Bridge in 1990 and the Hangang River Pedestrian Bridge in 1917. The construction of the bridges of Hangang River connected the roads and simultaneously brought about the development of Seoul, including the development of Gangnam (Yeongdong), Yeouido, and Jamsil.
□ Through this “Photo Exhibition of the Bridges of Hangang River – from Docks to Bridges” visitors can examine the hidden stories of bridges alongside photos in the order of completion.