Modernized Sewage Facility Completes Sasang’s Transformation into a Smart City Hub

Busan, South Korea—A transformative step toward urban innovation and environmental sustainability was unveiled today as the modernized sewage treatment facility in Sasang District officially marked its completion. At a ceremony attended by Mayor Park Heong-joon, city officials, and over 200 stakeholders and residents, the project was celebrated as a cornerstone of the Sasang Dream Smart City initiative, setting the stage for the district's evolution into a cutting-edge urban hub.

The upgraded facility, built on the site of the original sewage treatment plant established in 1973, represents a significant milestone in addressing long-standing environmental challenges. For decades, the aging facility caused odor-related issues that disrupted the daily lives of nearby residents. Structural deterioration had also reached critical levels, prompting urgent calls for modernization.

The ₩108.7 billion project began in earnest in 2020 with the ambitious goal of moving the treatment facility underground. This innovative design not only mitigates odor but also reclaims the surface area, transforming it into a community-focused space with recreational facilities and green areas. The upgraded facility now processes up to 2,100㎥ of sewage per day, using advanced biological treatment methods.

Local residents, who have endured years of discomfort due to the facility's inefficiencies, stand to benefit the most from the transformation. With the removal of odor and the creation of a public leisure space above the underground facility, the project exemplifies the city’s commitment to improving living conditions. Mayor Park highlighted this point during his remarks at the ceremony, stating, “This modernized facility is a testament to our dedication to the people of Sasang. By addressing a decades-old issue, we are creating a healthier, more livable community.”

The recreational area above the facility will feature sports grounds and green spaces, offering residents a much-needed oasis within the urban environment. This dual-purpose use of space reflects a growing trend in urban planning, where infrastructure projects are designed with both functionality and community in mind.

The completion of the sewage facility is just one piece of the larger Sasang Dream Smart City initiative, a bold plan to transform the aging industrial district into a hub of innovation, culture, and commerce. Central to this vision is the integration of modern infrastructure with sustainable urban design. The project dovetails with other ongoing efforts, including the Western Busan Administrative Complex Town, new corporate support centers, and the much-anticipated Sasang-Hadan Metro Line.

As Sasang’s industrial base undergoes redevelopment, the sewage treatment facility serves as a critical enabler of growth. By modernizing the region’s infrastructure, Busan is laying the groundwork for a district that balances economic development with quality of life enhancements. Officials expect these projects to attract new businesses, encourage investment, and provide jobs, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem of innovation.

The Sasang Dream Smart City project is far from complete, with major developments still on the horizon. The Seobusan Administrative Complex Town, set to break ground later this year, promises to centralize government and corporate functions in a single location. Additional plans include the construction of mixed-use facilities, expanded public transportation networks, and the creation of new parks and residential areas.

Mayor Park emphasized that the modernized facility is just the beginning. “This project is not only an achievement in environmental sustainability but also a vital step in transforming Sasang into a future-ready district. We remain committed to ensuring that all subsequent developments deliver tangible benefits to the people of this region.”

With the completion of the sewage facility, Busan takes a significant step toward realizing its vision for Sasang. By combining innovation, sustainability, and community-focused design, the city is redefining what it means to be a smart city, setting a national benchmark for urban redevelopment. As Sasang transitions into a hub where industry and innovation coexist with quality of life, the district’s transformation serves as a model for balanced urban growt