Ulsan, South Korea – After 18 years since its initial design, a crucial road project connecting Deokjeong Interchange to the Ulsan Petrochemical Complex has officially been completed and inaugurated. Ulsan Metropolitan City held a completion ceremony on June 16, 2025, for the thoroughfare, which is set to fully open to traffic on June 17, 2025, at 9:00 AM. This marks a significant milestone in improving infrastructure for Ulsan's vital industrial sector and easing urban traffic.
The ambitious project, encompassing two key sections — 'Deokjeong Interchange to Onsan-ro' and 'Deokha Market to Petrochemical Complex' — connects an 870-meter previously unlinked segment within the urban road network. The overall 1.8-kilometer route faced considerable delays since its detailed design commenced in 2007, primarily due to budget shortfalls. However, with the securing of substantial funding following the launch of the 8th popular election period in 2023, construction finally accelerated, culminating in its successful completion. The total cost of the project amounted to 34.1 billion Korean Won.
The full opening of this road is anticipated to deliver substantial economic and logistical advantages. Vehicles traveling to the Ulsan Petrochemical Complex will now enjoy direct access from National Road 14 and Onsan-ro, circumventing the perpetually congested Duwang Intersection. This improved accessibility is expected to lead to significant reductions in logistics costs for industries and bolster the overall competitiveness of the industrial complex.
Furthermore, in collaboration with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, a large roundabout has been installed beneath the road. This innovative design aims to alleviate traffic congestion within the semi-industrial areas it traverses. The project also addressed long-standing community concerns by expanding a 460-meter section in front of Cheongnyang Elementary School, mitigating previous flood issues during rainy seasons and enhancing pedestrian safety.
A city official expressed optimism regarding the project's impact, stating, "The completion of this road, delayed by various circumstances, will greatly improve accessibility between Onsan-ro and the Petrochemical Complex. This will ensure smoother transportation of industrial goods, contribute significantly to regional economic revitalization, and alleviate commuting inconveniences for residents." The newly opened road is poised to play a pivotal role in Ulsan's ongoing commitment to robust infrastructure development and sustained economic growth.
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