Seoul River Restoration Transformed City
When the Cheonggyecheon River was covered in 1958, the Korean city of Seoul suffered from pollution, high temperatures, and urban deterioration. To combat infrastructure and environmental problems, the River was uncovered and restored in 2005. This restoration led to a 639% increase of biodiversity by 2008, a decrease of up to 5.9°C in surrounding areas, and 35% reduction of small-particle air pollution. The river now is a public green area that boosts local community and attracts thousands of tourists daily.
