As Gangseo District races ahead with groundbreaking projects like Eco Delta City and Gadeokdo New Airport, nearby districts such as Sasang-gu and Saha-gu are being left in the dust, struggling with aging infrastructure, narrow streets, and dwindling populations. The stark contrast between these neighboring areas has raised a pressing question: Is Busan’s westward expansion truly balanced, or are we witnessing a widening divide that threatens to leave older districts behind?
Busan’s West Busan Balanced Development Plan claims to prioritize equity across the city’s western regions, but critics argue that much of the focus has been on showpiece projects rather than addressing the fundamental issues that plague Sasang and Saha. While ambitious plans like the Gadeokdo New Airport promise economic growth, long-standing local issues, such as outdated housing and limited investment in public infrastructure, remain largely unaddressed.
Infrastructure and Population Issues in Sasang-gu and Saha-gu
Both Sasang-gu and Saha-gu face significant challenges that hinder their growth and modernization. The most prominent issues are the deterioration of their infrastructure and the rapid decline of their populations, as younger residents move to more developed areas like Gangseo.
Sasang and Saha are characterized by an overwhelming presence of outdated housing and buildings, many of which were constructed during the post-war period and are now in a state of disrepair. More than 85% of the housing stock in these districts is over 20 years old, with narrow streets that were not designed to handle modern traffic volumes. This infrastructure not only contributes to urban decay but also makes daily commuting and living conditions less desirable for residents, particularly the younger population.
The narrow streets in these districts, many of which are remnants of older urban layouts, lead to frequent traffic congestion and pose safety hazards for both drivers and pedestrians. This problem is exacerbated by the aging public transportation infrastructure, which struggles to meet the needs of modern commuters. The lack of well-planned road systems has made urban mobility within these areas difficult, further deterring potential new residents or businesses from setting up in Sasang and Saha.
The aging infrastructure is closely tied to the population decline in these districts. Younger residents, in particular, are migrating to newly developed areas like Gangseo, where modern housing, employment opportunities, and better living conditions are attracting families and professionals. This outflow of young people is leaving Sasang and Saha with an aging demographic, compounding the districts’ economic stagnation. As a result, these areas are caught in a cycle of decay, with fewer incentives for redevelopment or revitalization.
While Gangseo continues to thrive as a result of large-scale developments like Eco Delta City and Myeongji International City, Sasang and Saha remain sidelined in Busan’s broader urban planning agenda. The lack of investment and modernization has only deepened the socioeconomic divide between these districts and the rapidly growing western part of Busan.
The Success of Oncheoncheon Stream
As Sasang and Saha face significant challenges, the restoration of Oncheoncheon Stream in Busan stands as a local example of how revitalizing neglected urban waterways can bring substantial environmental, economic, and social benefits. The transformation of Oncheoncheon, once a polluted and underused stream, serves as a model for potential stream restoration projects in Sasang-gu and Saha-gu, particularly for watercourses like Hakjangcheon and Goejeongcheon.
Oncheoncheon, a tributary of the Suyeong River, had long suffered from pollution due to nearby industrial activities and urban runoff. Over time, the stream was neglected, resulting in poor water quality and a lack of community engagement. In the early 2000s, however, a significant restoration project was undertaken by the Busan metropolitan government. This project involved removing the concrete lining of the stream, improving water quality through natural filtration systems, and creating pedestrian-friendly parks along its banks.
The success of the Oncheoncheon Restoration Project is seen in both its environmental improvements and its role as a community hub. The revitalized stream now supports a healthier ecosystem, with increased biodiversity and improved water quality. Additionally, it has become a popular recreational area, particularly known for its cherry blossom festivals, attracting both residents and tourists. The presence of walking and cycling paths along the water has made it an integral part of local daily life, promoting health and well-being.
The environmental rejuvenation of Oncheoncheon has also led to economic revitalization. As the stream became cleaner and more attractive, property values along its banks increased, and local businesses experienced growth due to the influx of visitors. The project demonstrated how environmental improvements could spur economic development, making the area more desirable for residents and investors alike.
The success of Oncheoncheon offers valuable lessons for the districts of Sasang and Saha, where similar neglected waterways exist. Hakjangcheon and Goejeongcheon, if restored, could play a similar role in revitalizing these districts by providing green spaces, improving environmental quality, and attracting both local residents and visitors. By removing industrial pollution and creating accessible public spaces, these waterways could reconnect residents with nature and offer much-needed recreational areas, helping to reverse the trend of population decline.
While Sasang and Saha are facing challenges related to urban decay, the example of Oncheoncheon shows that even small-scale environmental projects can have far-reaching benefits for community health, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. With thoughtful planning, the rivers in these districts could be restored as part of a broader urban regeneration strategy.
Westward Development of Gangseo and Regional Disparity
While Sasang-gu and Saha-gu face significant challenges with aging infrastructure and population decline, Gangseo District stands in sharp contrast as a rapidly developing area. Fueled by large-scale projects and strategic investments, Gangseo is emerging as the heart of Busan’s westward expansion. However, this rapid development is creating a growing socioeconomic divide between Gangseo and its neighboring districts.
Gangseo’s transformation is driven by high-profile projects like Eco Delta City, Myeongji International City, and the construction of Gadeokdo New Airport. These projects are designed to establish Gangseo as a smart city, with modern infrastructure, environmentally sustainable development, and advanced transportation networks. The district is positioned as a future economic powerhouse, set to accommodate 40,000 residents and support high-tech industries such as urban air mobility (UAM), R&D hubs, and aeronautics.
Gangseo’s appeal lies in its ability to attract younger families, professionals, and investors. The district offers cutting-edge residential developments, vast green spaces, and proximity to key industrial and transportation centers, positioning it as a desirable location for both living and business.
While Gangseo flourishes, Sasang and Saha remain largely neglected in Busan’s broader development strategy. The economic opportunities and modern amenities available in Gangseo have attracted a significant portion of the population, leading to a steady outflow of residents from the older districts. This population shift has worsened the socioeconomic conditions in Sasang and Saha, where infrastructure investment and redevelopment have lagged behind.
The disparity between Gangseo and its neighbors is evident in key indicators such as property values, job creation, and quality of life. As Gangseo develops into a hub for innovative industries and environmentally sustainable living, Sasang and Saha struggle with stagnating economies, declining property values, and the inability to attract new businesses or residents. The gap in public services and amenities further exacerbates the divide, as Gangseo’s modern infrastructure is a stark contrast to the outdated systems in Sasang and Saha.
Addressing the growing polarization between Gangseo and its neighboring districts requires a balanced development approach. While it is essential to continue leveraging Gangseo’s potential as a global hub, Busan must also prioritize the revitalization of Sasang and Saha to prevent these districts from being left behind. This includes targeted urban regeneration projects, improved transportation networks that connect the districts to Gangseo, and incentives to attract businesses and residents back to these older areas.
Without intervention, the socioeconomic divide between Gangseo and the rest of western Busan will likely deepen, creating a two-speed city where the benefits of development are concentrated in only one part of the region.
Aging and Decaying Infrastructure as a Major Obstacle
The rapid development in Gangseo District serves as a promising sign for Busan’s future, showcasing the potential for innovation and economic growth in the region. However, it also highlights a critical issue: the growing socioeconomic divide between Gangseo and its neighboring districts, Sasang-gu and Saha-gu. While Gangseo thrives with new high-tech industries, smart city infrastructure, and large-scale urban projects, Sasang and Saha continue to struggle with outdated infrastructure, population decline, and limited economic opportunities. Bridging this divide requires a balanced development strategy that revitalizes these neglected districts and ensures the benefits of growth are shared more equally.
Sasang-gu and Saha-gu face several structural and economic challenges that make redevelopment difficult. The most pressing issue is the aging and decaying infrastructure. A high percentage of the housing and buildings in these districts are over 20 years old, leading to serious structural problems and a decline in property values. This, in turn, deters potential investment and makes the districts less appealing to residents. Additionally, narrow and outdated roads compound the problem, making these areas difficult to navigate and further limiting their appeal for development.
Another challenge is the lack of economic opportunities. While Gangseo attracts high-tech industries such as aeronautics and research and development (R&D), Sasang and Saha remain heavily reliant on outdated industrial sectors that do not generate enough jobs to retain or attract younger residents. As a result, both districts face a declining population, which reduces economic activity and creates a cycle of stagnation.
Despite the urgent need for redevelopment, limited investment and policy focus have exacerbated these issues. Busan’s urban planning and investment efforts have been largely concentrated on rapidly developing areas like Gangseo, leaving Sasang and Saha without significant infrastructure improvements or economic incentives to attract new businesses or residents.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. First, targeted urban regeneration projects could help rejuvenate these districts. This may involve small-scale remodeling of existing infrastructure, supporting public-private partnerships for development, and updating zoning regulations to encourage mixed-use developments. Additionally, encouraging local entrepreneurship and supporting businesses that cater to younger generations could bring new energy to the area and stimulate economic growth.
Another important strategy is investing in connectivity. Improving transportation infrastructure between Gangseo and the older districts is crucial. Expanding public transit options such as bus routes, trams, or subway lines could improve mobility for residents of Sasang and Saha, making it easier for them to access job opportunities in Gangseo. Furthermore, upgrading the existing road networks and addressing the narrow, outdated roads in these districts will help attract new businesses and residents by improving overall accessibility.
To boost economic growth, Busan could introduce economic incentives like tax breaks or reduced land costs for businesses that establish operations in Sasang or Saha. Establishing special economic zones or technology parks in these areas could also help generate jobs and promote local economic development.
In terms of environmental initiatives, restoring the neglected waterways in Sasang and Saha, such as Hakjangcheon and Goejeongcheon, could significantly improve the quality of life for residents. As demonstrated by the successful restoration of Oncheoncheon Stream, turning these waterways into recreational spaces could boost property values, attract visitors, and foster a stronger sense of community.
Finally, as Gangseo’s housing market continues to grow, Sasang and Saha could position themselves as affordable alternatives, offering new housing projects at competitive prices. This could appeal to young professionals and families who are looking for budget-friendly housing options while still having access to modern amenities and public transportation.
Ultimately, the solution to the growing disparity between Gangseo and its neighboring districts lies in collaborative urban planning. This approach involves not only large-scale projects in Gangseo but also smaller, community-focused initiatives in Sasang and Saha that target local needs. By combining transportation improvements, economic incentives, and environmental revitalization, Busan can ensure that the western part of the city develops in a more balanced and inclusive manner.
The Role of Environmental Projects in Reviving Sasang and Saha
A key solution to addressing urban decay in Sasang-gu and Saha-gu is environmental revitalization, particularly through the restoration of neglected streams such as Hakjangcheon and Goejeongcheon. These streams, if restored and integrated with the Nackdonggang River, could transform into vibrant, accessible waterfront spaces, enhancing both the environment and the urban experience. By turning these streams into clean, well-maintained green corridors, the districts could reconnect residents with nature and offer much-needed public spaces that support regional development.
The neglected streams in Sasang and Saha, currently overshadowed by industrial activity and urbanization, can be revitalized to foster environmental and social change. Projects focused on restoring Hakjangcheon and Goejeongcheoncould remove pollutants, restore natural habitats, and reimagine these streams as the heart of community green spaces.
A successful model for such a transformation is the Oncheoncheon Stream Restoration, where a formerly polluted stream was rehabilitated into a thriving green corridor. This model offers inspiration for Sasang and Saha, where streams could serve as catalysts for local revitalization, providing space for parks, pedestrian paths, and recreational areas.
An essential part of this revitalization strategy is establishing a direct connection between Hakjangcheon, Goejeongcheon, and the Nackdonggang River. By linking these streams with the larger river system, Busan can restore natural water flow and improve the environmental health of its western districts. This connection would transform the streams into continuous green corridors that stretch from urban areas to the riverbanks, supporting not only biodiversity but also creating valuable public spaces.
Such a system of interconnected green corridors would create opportunities for residents to engage with nature while enhancing urban aesthetics. The development of walking trails, bike paths, and parks along the streams and the Nackdonggang River could help create an integrated, nature-friendly urban landscape that encourages outdoor activities and boosts tourism.
Well-maintained waterfront spaces can drive local economic growth. As seen with the restoration of Oncheoncheon, the creation of attractive green spaces along waterways can lead to an increase in property values and stimulate local businesses. Cafes, markets, and recreational facilities near these restored streams could draw both locals and visitors, supporting the area’s economy and helping to reverse the trend of population decline.
The restored streams, connected to the Nackdonggang River, could also serve as hubs for community activities, attracting people of all ages to spend time outdoors. These projects would enhance the appeal of Sasang and Saha as affordable, livable neighborhoods, making them more competitive with newer districts like Gangseo.
Stream restoration projects offer opportunities to incorporate sustainable urban design. By integrating green infrastructure such as flood control systems, bioswales, and water purification zones, these projects can mitigate environmental challenges while enhancing urban resilience to climate change. This would not only address the districts’ immediate environmental issues but also position Sasang and Saha as models for sustainable urban living.
To ensure long-term success, it’s vital to involve local communities in both the planning and upkeep of these revitalized spaces. Community engagement fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, ensuring that restored streams remain clean, well-maintained, and accessible to all. This approach creates stronger community bonds and promotes civic pride, further contributing to the social fabric of Sasang and Saha.
