South Korean actor Go Kyung-pyo has publicly expressed his disappointment and concern regarding the upcoming renovation of the Jamwon Hangang Park Swimming Pool in Seoul. The popular actor took to his personal social media on August 31st to share his sentiments, posting a photo of the swimming pool with a heartfelt caption.

Go Kyung-pyo conveyed his sadness upon hearing that the Jamwon Hangang Park Swimming Pool, which he has cherished for its improving facilities including size, depth, and amenities like sunbeds, is slated for a significant renovation. He lamented the potential loss of the current swimming experience, stating, "I heard that the Jamwon Hangang Swimming Pool will soon undergo remodeling and will no longer be a swimming pool for adults." He added, "I sincerely hope this is not true, but it makes me sad. If I could, I would want to know the reason." The actor reminisced about the numerous small, happy memories he has made at the pool, which prompted his lengthy post. He concluded his message with a hopeful plea: "My wish is that the Jamwon Hangang Swimming Pool can be maintained and continued in the future, just as it is now."

The management of Jamwon Hangang Park Swimming Pool had indeed announced a temporary suspension of operations due to remodeling, encouraging visitors to "don't miss out on this summer and use it with a season pass every day!" In response to this, Go Kyung-pyo tagged the official social media accounts of the Seoul Metropolitan Government, directly appealing for a renovation that would allow for continued swimming: "Hoping for a remodel where we can swim again." Go Kyung-pyo is scheduled to appear in the upcoming tvN drama 'Miss undercover boss' (working title), set to air in the first half of next year.

Regional Perspective

The vocal support from a prominent figure like Go Kyung-pyo for the Jamwon Hangang Park Swimming Pool highlights a growing sentiment among local residents and regular patrons who value the existing facilities and the community atmosphere they foster. This situation reflects a broader discussion in urban planning and public space management in Seoul, where development and modernization often clash with the preservation of beloved, established recreational areas. The actor's appeal draws attention to the qualitative aspects of public amenities – the memories, the user experience, and the emotional connection people form with these spaces. For businesses and stakeholders in the Korean entertainment and tourism sectors, this incident underscores the importance of public sentiment in urban development projects. It suggests that while modernization is often necessary, maintaining the character and accessibility of popular public spaces can be crucial for public approval and can even become a point of cultural resonance, potentially influencing future tourism and local engagement strategies.