The plaza surrounding Incheon Station — the gateway to the historic Jemulpo open port district — and nearby aging facilities are set to undergo a sweeping renovation.
The overhaul, driven by cooperation between the National Assembly and local government, is expected to bring tangible change to the old city center for residents and tourists alike.
Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker Heo Jong-sik, who represents Incheon's Dong-gu and Michuhol-gu (Gap) constituency, announced Tuesday that he is moving forward with the "Incheon Station Plaza Area Environmental Improvement Project" in partnership with Incheon Metropolitan City Mayor Park Chan-dae.
The project will draw entirely on 235 million won ($174,000) in unspent funds carried over from the 2025 "Open Port Landmark Infrastructure Development" project into the 2026 budget.
The project area spans a stretch of disused rail line through the Sangsang Platform intersection and on to Incheon Station Plaza.
The area around Incheon Station has long drawn complaints about sunken paving blocks, broken flower beds and benches, and cracked station walls — eyesores that also pose safety hazards for pedestrians.
In response, Incheon city will repave the ground surface between the Sangsang Platform intersection and Incheon Station Plaza and create rest areas. The pavement will feature symbolic patterns reflecting Incheon's identity alongside directional designs pointing tourists toward major attractions.
Jeomulpo-gu will clear flower beds and curb stones that obstruct sightlines within the plaza and relocate lighting fixtures. A dedicated photo zone framed by the Chinatown entrance gate will also be added to enhance the area's appeal.
Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail) will repaint the exterior walls of the aging station building and repair and reinforce cracked retaining walls and fencing.
The project is scheduled to begin with a detailed design study this month, proceed to a construction contract in December, and break ground in early February 2027.
"Incheon Station Plaza is a key space that shapes the first impression of the open port district, yet its deterioration had become so severe that improvements were urgently needed," Heo said.
gilbert@heraldcorp.com
