Busan, South Korea – Busan, a coastal city known for its hilly terrain, is investing heavily in improving accessibility for its residents. By the end of next year, the city plans to install a total of 22 inclined elevators and other transportation facilities in various hillside neighborhoods, known as sanbokdoro.

These new transportation options are expected to not only enhance mobility for elderly residents but also boost tourism to these historic areas. As more people visit these neighborhoods, the city hopes to revitalize local economies by encouraging the reuse of vacant properties for tourism-related businesses.

Expanding Accessibility

Donggu District is leading the charge, with plans to install four new inclined elevators by the end of 2024. These elevators will be located in key areas such as Ijung-seob Stairs in Beomil-dong and Chorang 48 Stairs in Chorang-dong. Additionally, Donggu will replace the malfunctioning monorail at Chorang 168 Stairs with a new inclined elevator, which is expected to be completed next month.

Busanjin-gu and Yeongdo-gu are also making significant investments in improving accessibility. A 52-meter inclined elevator has already been installed in Hocheon Village in Beomil-dong, and construction of a vertical elevator in Shinsun Village, Yeongdo-gu, is set to begin in January 2025.

Improving Quality of Life and Boosting Tourism

The new transportation facilities are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of residents in hilly areas, particularly the elderly. Donggu District Mayor Kim Jin-hong noted that the elevators will make it easier for residents to access hospitals, markets, and subways.

Furthermore, improved accessibility to popular tourist destinations such as Hocheon Village, Ijung-seob Lookout, and Chorang 168 Stairs is expected to attract more visitors. The city plans to enhance the appeal of these areas by creating new amenities like cafes and outdoor cinemas. Busanjin District Mayor Kim Young-wook expressed optimism about the potential for increased tourism and improved quality of life for residents.

Long-Term Benefits

The increased accessibility provided by these new transportation facilities is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy. By making it easier for people to visit and live in these neighborhoods, the city hopes to attract new businesses and revitalize vacant properties. This, in turn, could help to address some of the long-standing challenges faced by hillside communities.

The success of similar projects in other cities, such as Medellin, Colombia, which has used escalators to connect high and low-lying areas, and Seoul's Haebangchon neighborhood, which has installed an inclined elevator on the 108 Steps, provides a promising precedent for Busan's initiatives.