Hill on the River

Program: Pedestrian Bridge
Location: Han-River, Seoul, Korea
Client: Seoul Metropolitan Government
Year: 2019
Status: Competition(Merit Award)
Team: Hyunsoo Kim, Seongbeom Moㅣ김현수, 모성범

Can you imagine a hill on the Han River?

Since urbanization, 31 bridges have been constructed across the Han River, yet most are dedicated to vehicles and trains—none truly pedestrian-friendly. We propose a new type of bridge: a landscaped pedestrian crossing that not only reclaims human access to the river but also strengthens the physical, social, and cultural connectivity of Seoul. Through this conceptual project, we aim to explore how the Han River and the city can coexist more harmoniously in the future.

“Hill on the River” is a pedestrian bridge built atop the existing Grand Hangang Bridge, offering direct access to the newly opened Nodeul Music and Culture Base while connecting the northern and southern banks of the city. Inspired by the gentle rise of a hill and the lightness of a cloud, the design employs a lightweight space frame structure that leverages the existing bridge infrastructure efficiently. The result is a multi-level experience of the Han River, with varied elevations and perspectives.

Modular planter boxes and architectural elements are integrated within the space frame system, allowing for flexible arrangements of vegetation and activity zones. Tree clusters (bosques) are placed along both sides of the pathway to provide natural windbreaks and microclimatic comfort while visually and ecologically linking Nodeul Island with the riverside green corridors.

At the heart of the bridge, a central shelter and canopy offer indoor seating areas. Around it, a variety of public programs unfold—terraced benches, open lawns, urban farms, outdoor galleries, and small amphitheaters—all extending and amplifying the cultural life of Nodeul Complex.

“Hill on the River” is more than a bridge; it is a new kind of urban infrastructure—one that connects city, people, and nature in a continuous, experiential landscape above water.