Seongnam-Seocho Private Toll Road Project Advances, Targeting 2034 Opening

South Korea is moving forward with plans for a new 10.7-kilometer underground toll road connecting Seongnam in Gyeonggi Province to Seocho in Seoul. The project, officially designated the Seongnam-Seocho Expressway Private Investment Project, is targeting a 2034 completion date.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on March 22 that the Hyosung Heavy Industries consortium has been selected as the preferred negotiator for the project. This initiative aims to provide an alternative route to the Gyeongbu Expressway, allowing travelers to bypass the heavily congested southern Seoul area and connect directly to areas like Pangyo in Seongnam.

The expressway will feature a four-lane, largely underground tunnel system running parallel to the Gyeongbu Expressway. The estimated project cost is 561.2 billion won, though this figure is based on April 2016 prices and may increase. Construction is projected to commence in 2029, with the goal of opening the road in 2034.

Officials anticipate the new road will significantly ease traffic congestion around the Yangjae Interchange, reducing travel times and improving convenience for commuters. It is also expected to enhance the primary function of the Gyeongbu Expressway by diverting some of its traffic.

“

This project is expected to alleviate chronic congestion around the Yangjae Interchange, reduce people's travel time, and practically improve road convenience. It will also enhance the main function of the Gyeongbu Expressway.