Incheon Bridge, stretching 21.38 kilometers (13.3 miles) across the sea. It’s the longest bridge in Korea and the 5th longest in the world.
This bridge connects Incheon International Airport on Yeongjong Island with Songdo International Business District, making travel between these two areas much faster and more convenient.
Why Was Incheon Bridge Built?
Before this bridge was completed in 2009, traveling between Yeongjong Island and Songdo was a nightmare. Traffic congestion was severe, and the journey could take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. Now? Thanks to Incheon Bridge, it takes only 15 to 20 minutes!
For international travelers arriving at Incheon Airport, this bridge is a lifesaver, making the journey to Seoul and the rest of the country much smoother.
🔹 Did you know?
During the early construction phase, ancient Korean and Chinese ceramics from the Joseon Dynasty were discovered underwater. These artifacts, believed to be part of a historic trade route, added an unexpected layer of history to the bridge's construction site!
Why a Cable-Stayed Bridge?
Now, you might be wondering—why did they choose a cable-stayed bridge for such a long structure? Well, there are three main reasons:
✅ To allow massive cargo ships to pass through
- Incheon is home to a busy international port, and this bridge was designed with no central pillars blocking the way.
- The main span is 800 meters (2,624 feet) wide, ensuring that even the largest ships can pass underneath.
✅ To ensure structural stability and cost efficiency
- A cable-stayed design is one of the most effective ways to build a long bridge.
- Compared to other bridge types, it provides a strong, stable structure while keeping construction costs relatively lower.
✅ To withstand typhoons and earthquakes
- Incheon is along Korea’s western coast, where strong winds and typhoons occur.
- The bridge was designed to resist typhoon winds of up to 72 meters per second and earthquakes over magnitude 7.0.
🔹 Did you know?
In 2010, just one year after its completion, Incheon Bridge faced its first major test when Typhoon Gonpasu hit Korea. The storm brought winds exceeding 50 meters per second, yet the bridge remained completely intact, proving its incredible engineering strength!
A Landmark and a Stunning Filming Location
Today, Incheon Bridge is more than just a road—it’s an iconic landmark of Incheon. It’s been featured in Korean dramas, movies, and commercials thanks to its modern, futuristic design.
And if you get the chance to see it at night, you’re in for a treat. The bridge lights up beautifully, making it one of the best night views in Incheon. If you ever drive across in the evening, don’t forget to take a moment and enjoy the view!
🔹 Did you know?
The bridge has appeared in multiple Korean action movies and dramas, often serving as the perfect backdrop for high-speed chases and intense escape scenes. Its futuristic look makes it a favorite for film directors!