By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) announced that Nodeul Island will go through its first major transformation in 55 years. Popular among Seoul citizens, this popular sunset spot will become a global art island that brings together exhibitions, performances, and rest beyond its role as a leisure space.

Titled “Nodeul Global Art Island,” it is part of Seoul’s Hangang Renaissance 2.0: Great Hangang Project launched in 2023. The project aims to make the entire ground, waterfront and aerial spaces of Nodeul Island accessible to the public, expanding from the only open spaces of the western section as before.

Nodeul Island was built in 1917 during the Japanese occupation as an artificial island. It began operating as a “music island” in 2019, but only used the western performance area and convenience facilities, and the eastern forest and waterfront spaces saw little use.

Transformation into a global art island blending leisure, exhibitions, performances, and relaxation while restoring the natural ecosystem.

The project will preserve the existing cultural spaces of Nodeul Island while adding walkways and floating gardens around it. The goal is to create spaces for the arts and culture where nature coexists and to develop the island into a landmark loved by both citizens and visitors from around the world.

The entire project design was led by Thomas Heatherwick, who is often called the British da Vinci, heightening public anticipation even further.

The city plans to develop Nodeul Island into a symbolic space representing the city’s vision as a city of emotions. Once completed, it will host performances, exhibitions, and festivals that will turn the center of the Hangang River into a global stage for art.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Oct. 21 at Nodeul Island’s lawn yard, marking the official start of the project. Around 300 people attended the event, including Mayor Oh Se-hoon and world-renowned architect Thomas Heatherwick.