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Heatherwick Studio Selected for Landmark Redevelopment of Seoul‘s Nodeul Island
Seoul, South Korea – October 28, 2025 – heatherwick Studio has been chosen to lead a thorough transformation of Nodeul Island, a previously overlooked artificial island in the Han River, into a vibrant cultural and recreational destination for Seoul. The enterprising project, announced today, aims to revitalize the 930,000 square meter site and connect it more seamlessly to the city’s fabric.
For decades, Nodeul Island served primarily as a waste disposal site and flood control basin, largely inaccessible to the public. This redevelopment represents a pivotal moment for Seoul, offering a unique opportunity to create a notable public space and cultural hub. The project’s success hinges on Heatherwick Studio’s ability to deliver a design that balances ecological sensitivity with innovative architectural solutions, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Seoul’s residents and attracting tourism.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government initiated an international design competition in 2024,seeking proposals to unlock the island’s potential. Heatherwick Studio’s winning design envisions a network of interconnected parks,performance venues,and cultural facilities,all integrated with the island’s natural landscape. Key elements include a series of undulating hills offering panoramic river views, a central performance space capable of hosting large-scale events, and improved pedestrian and cycling connections to the mainland.
Thomas heatherwick, founder of Heatherwick Studio, emphasized the project’s focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.”We were captivated by the unique history of Nodeul Island and the opportunity to transform it into a place that feels both wild and meticulously crafted,” Heatherwick stated. “Our design aims to create a destination that is deeply rooted in its context, offering a rich and diverse experience for all.”
Construction is slated to begin in late 2026, with a projected completion date in 2030. The redevelopment is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the surrounding area and establish Nodeul Island as a landmark destination on the Seoul skyline.The project is being funded through a combination of public and private investment, with the Seoul Metropolitan Government contributing the majority of the estimated $280 million budget.
