South Korea Launches Naming Contest for Upcycled Bridge Garden on Lake Cheongpung
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A new initiative in North Chungcheong Province aims to transform an aging bridge into a vibrant tourist destination,and the public is invited to help name it.The province is currently accepting submissions for a new moniker for the Cheongpunggyo Garden Project, an enterprising upcycling effort to revitalize the historic Cheongpung Bridge.
The project, announced on November 30th, seeks to convert the former Cheongpung Bridge into a unique “Bridge Garden on the Lake,” complete with gardens and enhanced safety features. This transformation is intended to establish a new local landmark and attract visitors to the region. The naming contest, running from December 1st to 7th, is a key component of the project’s branding strategy.
From Demolition to Destination
Originally constructed in 1984 alongside the completion of the Chungju Dam, the 315-meter-long and 10-meter-wide Cheongpung Bridge faced potential demolition following the construction of a newer bridge in 2012. However, Governor kim Young-hwan proposed a more innovative solution in October 2023: upcycling the existing structure into a valuable tourism asset.
This decision followed concerns regarding the bridge’s structural integrity. however, a complete evaluation conducted since May, at a cost of 1.9 billion won, resulted in an “A” grade condition assessment, allaying safety fears.
A Garden Inspired by Tradition
The province plans to invest 3.6 billion won to complete the garden by June of next year. The design will incorporate sculptures and landscaping elements that reflect the meaning of ‘Cheongpungmyeongwol (淸風明月)’, a phrase symbolizing North Chungcheong Province and evoking images of clear breezes and bright moonlight.
The project doesn’t stop at the bridge itself. Jecheon City is also developing the ‘Cheongpung Myeongwol-gil’, a 6.1km themed walking path around Cheongpung Bridge and Cheongpung Lakeside, slated for completion by 2032.
Public Participation and Prizes
The naming contest is open to all, including residents of North Chungcheong Province, with each individual permitted one submission. Interested participants can download the necesary form from the Provincial Office website and submit it via email.
A panel will initially screen submissions, selecting five excellent works.A public preference survey will then determine the final name. Prizes will be awarded to the winning entries: 500,000 won for first place, 300,000 won each for two excellent winners, and 100,000 won each for two runners-up. The winning name will be prominently featured in the promotion of the Cheongpunggyo Garden project.
“I hope that various ideas that can capture the emotion,symbolism,and popularity of Cheongpunggyo will come together from all over the country,”
Why: North Chungcheong Province initiated the Cheongpunggyo Garden Project to prevent the demolition of the aging Cheongpung Bridge and transform it into a tourist attraction.
Who: Governor Kim Young-hwan proposed the upcycling project, and the North Chungcheong Province and Jecheon City are leading the development. The public is invited to participate in naming
