Bupyeong-gu takes No. 1 spot in Ministry of Interior and Safety competition for small-stream improvement projects

A view of the Gulpocheon ecological stream restoration project in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon [Bupyeong-gu]
A view of the Gulpocheon ecological stream restoration project in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon [Bupyeong-gu]

The Gulpocheon stream in Incheon's Bupyeong-gu, long buried under concrete, has been reborn as a living waterway at the heart of the city — and is now recognized as a national model for small-stream restoration.

Bupyeong-gu was named the top local government in the country in the Ministry of Interior and Safety's 2026 outstanding small-stream improvement project competition, winning first place for its Gulpocheon ecological stream restoration project.

The district carried out a large-scale restoration along a 1.5-kilometer stretch of the upper Gulpocheon — from the Bupyeong 1-dong administrative welfare center to the district office — removing concrete covering structures and existing drainage boxes to reopen the waterway. The project was completed in December 2025.

The district went beyond simply reopening the channel, focusing on reviving the aquatic ecosystem and creating a water-friendly public space. Obstructions that had blocked the flow were removed to improve water circulation, and natural-style riverbanks, riffles and fish habitats were built to lay the groundwork for a self-sustaining aquatic environment.

Odor-blocking gates and a stable water-supply system were also installed to address the persistent smell that had long plagued the urban stream.

The district also improved the surrounding environment and landscape by building an urban forest, a "Milky Way path," pedestrian bridges, walking trails and a community participation plaza — transforming the area into a water-friendly space that enhances residents' quality of life.

To guard against the rapid water-level surges that urban streams can experience during sudden localized downpours, the district introduced a disaster warning system. Automatic barriers were installed at 11 key entry points, enabling immediate control of public access in emergencies as part of a smart safety network.

With the top prize, Bupyeong-gu will receive a commendation from the minister of interior and safety and earn bonus points when applying for special local allocation tax funds related to small-stream improvement projects in 2027.

The district plans to use the recognition as a springboard to accelerate the second phase of the Gulpocheon ecological stream restoration project.

"The Gulpocheon restoration is the fruit of our efforts to reopen a closed urban waterway and give residents a safe and pleasant place to rest," Bupyeong-gu District Mayor Cha Jun-taek said. "Building on the success of the first phase, we will lead the second phase to equal success and make Gulpocheon a landmark destination in Bupyeong where ecology, relaxation and safety come together."


gilbert@heraldcorp.com