Two renovated rest areas along Sowol-ro — Sodam and Soyo shelters — preserve existing trees and views while adding wider walkways, seating and a smartphone photo mount for capturing Yongsan's skyline
Yongsan-gu in Seoul has transformed two worn-down rest areas along Sowol-ro at the foot of Namsan into comfortable public spaces for residents and visitors.
The district renovated existing rest areas near Yongsan-dong 2-ga 11 and Huam-dong 406-97 into two newly designed spaces named Sodam Shelter and Soyo Shelter.
The two spaces are united under a single brand — "Soso Shelter" — while each retains its own distinct character, scenery and function.
Rather than simply replacing old facilities with new ones, the project stripped away unnecessary elements and made the most of each site's existing assets, including mature trees and open views. Walking, resting and sightseeing functions were woven together so that residents and visitors along Sowol-ro can linger in their own way.
Sodam Shelter combines a bus stop with a rest area at a spot where the entrance to Bosung Girls' Middle and High School and an existing rest area had left the footpath cramped. Yongsan-gu merged the functions of a separately installed pergola and bus shelter into a single structure, widening the pedestrian path while creating a shared waiting and rest area for both bus passengers and walkers taking a break.
Existing trees were left in place. Rest facilities were arranged beneath them to take advantage of natural shade, and a circular framed opening was installed to frame the surrounding scenery. Wind chimes were added to animate the space on breezy days. Heated benches and pet-friendly amenities were also provided for visitor convenience.
Soyo Shelter is an established viewpoint overlooking Haebangchon and the Yongsan city center. The district focused on enhancing that vantage point, replacing an aging wooden fence with one that improves both safety and openness, widening the field of view. Rest facilities that follow the natural curve of the cityscape were also installed so anyone can sit comfortably and take in the surroundings.
A smartphone photography mount was added so residents and visitors can more easily capture Yongsan's scenery — sunsets and night views visible from Sowol-ro. Paving and lighting were also upgraded to preserve the site's appeal as a viewpoint while improving safety and comfort.
The two shelters serve different purposes but are connected under the Soso Shelter name. Sodam Shelter is an everyday space for waiting for a bus or pausing during a walk, while Soyo Shelter is a scenic overlook where visitors can take in Yongsan's urban landscape and photograph it.
Yongsan-gu said the project links the small, scattered rest areas along Sowol-ro under a single identity while preserving the character and function of each individual site.
Residents who have used the shelters responded positively to the changes. "Before, the space was too cramped and the facilities too old to sit and rest comfortably, but now the walkway is wider and it's nice to be able to relax under the trees," one resident said. Another said Soyo Shelter is a pleasant spot to stop during a walk and enjoy the view of Haebangchon and the Yongsan city center. "Especially at sunset or when the night view comes on, it feels like discovering a new neighborhood landmark," the resident added.
Yongsan-gu District Mayor Kim Gyeong-dae said the Soso Shelter project was not simply about replacing old facilities with new ones, but about preserving the trees and views each site already had while using design to address the inconveniences users faced. "Going forward, we will continue to create public spaces that reflect Yongsan's unique sense of place and the value of everyday life, so that both residents and visitors can relax and experience the best of Yongsan," he said.
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