Originally called “clam well” Hapjeong-dong has transformed over the years. Hapjeong-dong is a vibrant neighborhood in Seoul’s Mapo District. Its history is rich and its present is dynamic.
Let’s explore the story of Hapjeong-dong. Once part of Yeonhui-bang it encompassed areas now known as Seodaemun and western Mapo District. The name Hapjeong-dong originally meant “clam well”. This was written in Hanja as 蛤井洞. Later the Hanja transcription changed to 合井.
After 1910, following the Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty, Hapjeong-dong became Hapjeon-ri in 1913. By 1936 it was known as Hapjeong-jeong. It belonged to Yeonhui-myeon, stretching from Seodaemun to Yeouido. In 1944, it joined the newly formed Mapo District. Finally in 1946, it received its present name: Hapjeong-dong.
Today, several main streets define Hapjeong-dong. Donggyo-ro divides it from Mangwon-dong. You will also find Dongmak-ro, and Huiujeong-ro. Huiujeong-ro is named after Mangwonjeong’s former name. Poeun-ro is another key street. It honors Chǒng Mong-ju. A statue of him stands at one end. Other streets include Seonji-gil, Tojeong-ro, and Yanghwajin-gil. Yanghwajin-gil refers to Yanghwagin, a former port. Yanghwa-ro leads to Yanghwa Bridge. Finally, Worldcup-ro separates Hapjeong-dong from Seogyo-dong. It leads to the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
Hapjeong-dong offers a few historical landmarks. Mangwonjeong is a notable pavilion. Prince Hyoryeong built it in 1424. He was King Sejong’s elder brother. He used it to oversee farming. King Sejong named it “Huiujeong” after a delightful rain. Prince Wolsan later renamed it “Mangwongeong”. A flood damaged the pavilion in 1925. It was rebuilt in 1989. Today, it overlooks the Han River expressway.
Yangwhajin was once a vital port. It served as a ferry dock on the Han riverside. It was an important entry point to Seoul. Nearby, you’ll find Jeoldu-san. This rocky promontory overlooks the Han River. It features a shrine and park for Christian martyrs. The Yanghwajin Foreigners’ Cemetery is also close by.
Also worth noting is Yanghwa Bridge. It connects to Seonyu-do. The Seoul Thermal Power Station is partly in Dangin-dong. Hapjeong-dong is home to numerous music and media companies. One prominent example is YG Entertainment.
Getting around Hapjeong-dong is easy. Hapjeong Station serves both Line 2 and Line 6. Sangsu Station is also nearby. Numerous Seoul bus lines serve the area.
Consider “Hapjeong Station Exit 5” by Yoo Jae-suk. This song tells the story of lovers meeting for a final goodbye. This adds a layer of modern culture to Hapjeong-dong’s story. Hapjeong-dong seamlessly blends history with contemporary life. From its origin as “clam well” to its role as a cultural hub, it continues to evolve. This neighborhood offers a unique glimpse into Seoul’s past and present.