Daegu, South Korea – Daegu City announced that a private consortium, including major construction companies, has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport for the construction of the Palgong Mountain Tunnel Road project.

The project, estimated to cost 1.8 trillion won, involves constructing a new four-lane road with a total length of 30 kilometers, connecting the Suseong toll gate on the Jungang Expressway to the Donggunwi junction. Some sections of the existing road will also be expanded from four to six lanes.

Daegu City plans to install rest areas and interchanges at key points along the road to boost local tourism.

The proposal was initiated by Daegu Mayor Hong Jun-pyo, who suggested building a new road to improve accessibility between Daegu and Gunwi County.

To expedite the project and reduce costs, the city has opted for a private investment model. Despite challenging economic conditions, including a construction downturn, rising interest rates, and labor costs, the city successfully secured the participation of major construction companies through extensive negotiations.

Once completed, the road is expected to reduce travel time between Suseong and Donggunwi by 10 kilometers and 30 minutes, improving convenience for residents and providing an alternative route between Seoul and Busan. Additionally, the new road is expected to serve as a key driver for the development of Gunwi County, boosting tourism, culture, and industry.

Daegu City plans to expedite the approval process, including a feasibility study by the Korea Development Institute, with the goal of completing the project by 2030 to coincide with the opening of the new Daegu International Airport.

Mayor Hong expressed his confidence in the project, stating that the Palgong Mountain Tunnel Road will play a significant role in the development of Daegu and the revitalization of Gunwi County.