Bupyeong-gu wins top national award for Gulpocheon ecological restoration

Bupyeong-gu has been named the top-performing local government in South Korea for its Gulpocheon ecological stream restoration project. The district received the highest honors in the ‘2026 Small River Maintenance Project Best Practices’ competition hosted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.

The project involved restoring a 1.5km upper section of the Gulpocheon stream, stretching from the Bupyeong 1-dong Administrative Welfare Center to the Bupyeong-gu Office. Key improvements included removing concrete covering structures and sewage boxes to enhance water flow, creating natural banks and fish habitats, and installing odor-control systems.

To improve resident amenities, the district developed urban forests, walking trails, and pedestrian bridges. Safety measures were also prioritized, including a disaster early warning system and automatic blocking facilities at 11 access points to manage sudden water level rises during heavy rainfall. The recognition includes a commendation from the Minister of the Interior and Safety and provides additional points for future disaster safety grant applications.