Yongin's Shingal-ori transformed into a human-centered smart city

The once-bustling Shingal-ori area in Yongin City, a former transportation hub, has been reborn as a 'human-centered smart city' after a five-year urban regeneration project. The initiative, launched in 2021, focused on blending advanced digital technology with resident wisdom to revitalize the declining downtown district.

The project's driving force was citizen participation. Yongin City involved residents from the planning stage through public hearings and living labs. Residents identified real-life problems and proposed solutions, which were then incorporated into the project. This approach has led to significant improvements in daily life, particularly in safety and convenience.

Key enhancements include the installation of CCTV-equipped 'smart poles' and emergency bells in dimly lit alleys to bolster nighttime safety. Public transportation also saw upgrades with 'multi-functional smart transit shelters' offering protection from the elements. AI cameras on 'smart crosswalks' alert drivers and pedestrians to approaching vehicles, while a 'parking guidance system' helps alleviate traffic congestion and safety issues.

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The project, which invested 5 billion won over five years, is an urban planning case that efficiently solved the problems of the old city by combining artificial intelligence and information and communication technology.

The initiative also prioritized environmental sustainability. Smart trash bins and resource recovery robots track waste to improve collection efficiency. Along the Shingal stream, 'smart cooling fog' systems combat urban heat and provide a pleasant atmosphere for walkers. In residential areas, a 'smart power monitoring system' in 250 homes has reduced electricity consumption by over 12% by allowing real-time monitoring of usage.

This successful transformation of Shingal-ori is set to inspire similar projects in other parts of Yongin, including Jungang-dong in Cheoin-gu, Guseong- and Mabuk-dong in Giheung-gu, and Pungdeokcheon-dong in Suji-gu. City officials highlighted the project's focus on improving quality of life through resident-centric, technology-driven solutions rather than large-scale redevelopment.

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It is a resident-perceived project to improve the quality of life, not a method of large-scale reconstruction or redevelopment.