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From a distance Kang Ik-Joong’s Bridge of Dreams looks like an abstract piece of modern art. A pixelated computer screen brought into 3 dimensions perhaps, or a colourful tunnel leading to oblivion or nirvana (you decide which)…

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Up close though, it’s row upon row of tiles illustrated with the hopes and wishes of children from 16 different countries around the world. The 140,000 tiles have drawings of stuffed teddy bears, art and sport careers, family and the world at large.

Originally built to connect two areas of the 2012 Expo in Yeosu, separated by the Dongcheon River, the Bridge of Dreams was constructed from 30 abandoned and recycled cargo containers, in line with the “green” spirit of the Expo itself.

On one end lies the Suncheon Bay Gardens, and on the other, the SkyCube and the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve.

The exterior of the bridge itself is covered with a mosaic of Korean syllables, out of which a treasure trove of phrases and advice can be discovered, if only you look hard enough.

It seemed somehow fitting to traverse this bridge built out of children’s ambitions and wishes, with my very own little one.

She, whose hopes and aspirations have yet to be painted upon her…and for whom, I dream only a dream of contentedness.

Comments:

  • May 11, 2016

    That’s pretty cool bridge, wouldn’t be great if all public spaces created in an artistic way?

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    • May 12, 2016

      It would be. I think in Korea because space is at such a premium, a lot of spaces are multi-purpose. Right now they’re planning the Paik Nam June Media Bridge, which will be an art space, IT hub and other things, besides just a bridge. Will be cool when it’s finished!! 😀

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  • May 4, 2016

    This one’s on our list! 🙂

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    • May 4, 2016

      The Gardens are worth it I think! You could easily spend all day there exploring. But um..what isn’t on your list? 😉

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  • April 25, 2016

    Very cool bridge … and wonderful thoughts also!

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    • April 27, 2016

      Asian parents are notorious for dreaming of achievement for their children (my mom was), but I hope to teach Naia to strive for peace of mind and happiness above all things. 🙂

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