After standing for over 25 years as a symbol of Tongyeong, the iconic Tongyeong Bridge is undergoing a major transformation, combining safety upgrades with cultural revitalization.
The Tongyeong Bridge Improvement Project aims to enhance both the structural integrity of the bridge and the artistic identity of the city.
Originally completed in 1998, the bridge connects central Tongyeong to Mireukdo Island.
Years of exposure to harsh sea winds and saltwater have led to corrosion and paint damage, raising long-standing safety concerns.
With a secured budget of ₩4 billion, including support from Gyeongnam Province, the city is moving forward with full-scale improvements.
The most notable feature of the project is the integration of the late Jeon Hyeok-rim’s artwork “Pungeoje”, an abstract interpretation of Tongyeong’s fishing village culture. The design will be layered over a white base coat to turn the bridge into an “open-air art museum.”
To ensure artistic quality, the Jeon Hyeok-rim Art Museum is actively participating in the design process, having granted permission to use the artwork without licensing fees.
The city is also considering installing nighttime lighting that complements the artwork, transforming the bridge into a 24-hour visual landmark.
Alongside the Tongyeong Port Oceanation Project, which includes a “Bridge of Music” inspired by composer Yun Isang, the city is crafting a cultural corridor where art and infrastructure coexist.
Tongyeong officials ask for citizens’ patience during construction, noting that safety measures such as sequential directional work instead of full closures are being taken to minimize inconvenience.
