This study aims to establish development and urban regeneration strategies for station areas that reflect the local identity and urban structure, with a focus on the Suwon Station area. It analyzes the current conditions and derives strategic implicat...
This study aims to establish development and urban regeneration strategies for station areas that reflect the local identity and urban structure, with a focus on the Suwon Station area. It analyzes the current conditions and derives strategic implications through comparisons with domestic and international case studies. Suwon is a city rich in traditional culture, centered around Hwaseong Fortress—a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the reign of King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty. Suwon Station serves as a major transportation hub in the southern Seoul metropolitan area, functioning as a multi-modal transfer center where high-speed rail (KTX), conventional rail, subway lines, and intercity bus terminals converge.
However, the Suwon Station area is experiencing spatial disconnection and a decline in urban functionality due to aging infrastructure, an unbalanced commercial structure, and a vehicle-centric transportation environment. Notably, the effective disappearance of the station’s front plaza has diminished its symbolic role as a city gateway and weakened its public character. The lack of pedestrian-oriented spaces has also negatively impacted the quality of life for local residents.
To address these challenges, this study adopts the theoretical frameworks of urban regeneration, transit-oriented development (TOD), and placemaking. The research methodology includes literature review, on-site observation, spatial, social, and economic analysis, as well as SWOT analysis. A comparative analysis was conducted with various domestic and international urban regeneration cases, such as New York’s High Line Park, London’s King’s Cross redevelopment, Seoul Station North development, and Gwangju Songjeong Station Market.
The analysis identified strengths of the Suwon Station area, including excellent transportation accessibility, concentration of core functions, and potential for linkage with nearby cultural heritage. Weaknesses include the absence of a front plaza, poor pedestrian environment, spatial disconnection, and commercial imbalance. Opportunities include the opening of the GTX-C line, urban regeneration policy support (New Deal), and increased private investment. Threats include gentrification and intensified competition among commercial districts.
Accordingly, the study proposes the following future vision for Suwon Station area: First, establish a three-dimensional spatial structure by designing the ground level as a pedestrian-friendly plaza and the underground as a multifunctional space centered on public transportation and commercial facilities.
Second, design the plaza with symbolic significance using curved patterns inspired by traditional motifs (e.g., the taegeuk pattern), incorporating spaces such as “Pungakjeong” (a traditional courtyard) and “Eoull Madang” (a youth plaza) where different generations can gather.
Third, enhance place attachment and community engagement through participatory programs such as flea markets, street art performances, and community gardens.
From an economic perspective, expected outcomes include a 20% increase in foot traffic, an annual consumer spending increase of approximately KRW 29.2 billion, growth in commercial sales and property values, and annual transportation benefits of around KRW 300 billion due to the GTX-C line—contributing significantly to regional economic revitalization and urban competitiveness.
In conclusion, this study goes beyond the physical improvement of infrastructure, proposing strategies to restore public value and identity, and to create a sustainable urban environment. It provides practical insights not only for Suwon but also for other similar station area regeneration projects in Korea, offering valuable direction for localized urban planning.