BUSAN — The Busan Metropolitan Government is accelerating plans to develop the Nakdong River waterfront while preserving its ecosystem, framing the river as a strategic asset for closing the economic gap between the city's eastern and western districts.
Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo met with Lee Hyung-seop, head of the Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office, the previous day to discuss cooperation on waterfront development and key pending projects, the city said on the 28th.
The talks centered on expanding public access, cultural and leisure spaces that residents can use while protecting the river's natural environment. The two officials agreed to work closely on permits for river use and other procedures needed to advance the Nakdong Sunset Hwamyeong Eco Park project.
The eco park project aims to create a waterfront space combining nature, culture and rest, taking advantage of the river's sunset views. The two sides also discussed building a park golf course at Hwamyeong Ecological Park to meet demand for recreational sports, and holding various events at ecological parks along the river.
The officials also explored balanced regional development tied to large-scale projects in western Busan, including the Eco Delta City and the new Gadeokdo International Airport. The city said it will continue working with related agencies and organizations to spread the growth effects of those projects across western Busan while conserving the ecosystem of the lower Nakdong River.
"The Nakdong River is a strategic asset that can close the gap between eastern and western Busan," Jeon said. "I ask for active cooperation so that it can be reborn as a space residents can fully enjoy and love."
Lee said the environmental office will "actively work to resolve pending issues through continued attention and cooperation on Busan's key projects."
