Netherlands-based studio Arch Mist was the winner of the“Jamsu Bridge, Bridge of Culture design competition in Seoul, Korea. Arch Mist’s proposal includes the repurposing of the 2,608-foot bridge over the Han River to be transformed into the “longest art gallery in the world.” When completed in 2026, the project will offer unique public spaces for cultural events and art exhibitions.

© Arch Mist

Situated in the center of Seoul, Jamsu Bridge spans the Han River, linking two of the most important districts in Seoul: Yongsan and Seocho. The project will pedestrianize tJamsu Bridge and create a walking-friendly space named the Great Hangang Project by Seoul Metropolitan Government.

“We have put lots of effort into this project, since the beginning of the competition, and we are determined to see it through to the end in order to create a ‘bridge of culture’ that visitors and residents can enjoy,” said Chang-soo Lim, future space planning officer, Seoul Metropolitan Government. “It will also be the first pedestrian bridge and the first waterfront cultural space over the Han River.”

© Arch Mist

Arch Mist’s design introduces multiple bridge balconies and ramp connections to create a visual focal point from a distance, providing a sequence of panoramic viewpoints over the river. To give it a human-scale, a new, elevated deck will be added to divide the 36-foot-long high space vertically with multiple balconies.

On most days, the newly transformed bridge will be used as a gallery space for holding permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a weekly market for the surrounding neighborhoods. In addition, it will also hold special events, like a runway with theater seats, a public movie theater during the night and a space for weddings. The bridge will also provide a unique experience for interacting with the water fountain on Banpo Bridge without interfering with pedestrian connectivity on the newly added upper deck.

© Arch Mist

Floating planters will be introduced to create a wetland corridor in the river to improve biodiversity and the microclimate on the bridge. A curvy waterfront boundary will maximize the perimeter of the water interface, and a redesigned bike path will follow the curve of the lower deck, providing a fun riding experience.

Built in 1976, Jamsu Bridge is located closest to the water surface of the Han River. Its current double-decker structure provides access from the Han riverside, with Banpo Bridge positioned above. It was designed as a submersible bridge during the flood season. Currently, Jamsu Bridge consists of two lanes for round-trip auto traffic with sidewalks on both sides and a bicycle path on one side. Construction on the project begins in 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2026.