Yeouido Airport: The Historical Gateway to Seoul
Before the towering skyscrapers and bustling financial districts defined the skyline of modern Seoul, the island of Yeouido served a much different purpose. Long before it became a center for commerce and recreation, it was home to Yeouido Airport, a vital aviation hub that played a central role in the region's early aeronautical history.
Operating from 1916 until its demolition in 1971, Yeouido Airport transitioned from a military training ground to an international gateway, eventually making way for the urban landscape we recognize today.
A Timeline of Aviation Evolution
The history of the airfield began in 1916 when the Imperial Japanese Army constructed an airstrip on the island. At that time, Yeouido was primarily farmland, though it also functioned as a training base for the Imperial Army. As aviation technology advanced, so did the facility.
The Era of International Service
In 1929, Japanese authorities significantly upgraded the airport to serve as a key stop for air services to Manchuria. During the 1930s, Imperial Japanese Airways (formerly Japan Air Transport) provided scheduled flights connecting the airport to major destinations such as Tokyo, Fukuoka, Mukden, Dalian, and Xinjing.
As the scale of military operations grew, the much larger Kimpo Airfield opened in 1943. Following this development, Yeouido was officially designated as Keijo No. 2 Airfield.
Post-War Operations and Commercial Growth
Following World War II, the airfield entered a new chapter. It became a primary base of operations for Korean National Airlines (KNA), which later became known as Koreanair. KNA facilitated essential connections, including international flights to Hong Kong and domestic routes to Pusan, Kangnung, Kwangju, and Cheju.
During the 1950s, the airport also hosted Northwest Orient Airlines, which operated flights between Seoul and Tokyo, providing travelers with critical onward connections to North America.
Challenges and Transition
Despite its importance, Yeouido Airport faced significant environmental hurdles. The site was highly prone to flooding, which frequently rendered the airfield unusable during the summer rainy season. These logistical difficulties eventually necessitated a shift in Seoul's aviation infrastructure.
In 1958, commercial passenger services were transferred to Gimpo International Airport. The site continued to serve military functions until 1971, when the Seoul Air Base took over those responsibilities. Following its closure, the airport was demolished to make way for the redevelopment of Yeouido into a major business district and the creation of Yeouido Park.
Key Facts
- Opened: October 1916
- Closed: February 1971
- Passenger Services Ceased: January 30, 1958
- Primary Function: International airport (1929–1958) and military base (1958–1971)
- Current Use: Part of Yeouido Park, KBS headquarters, and MBC headquarters
Airport Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, South Korea |
| Airport Type | Defunct |
| Coordinates | 37°31′33″N 126°55′19″E |
| Major Operators | Imperial Japanese Army, U.S. Fifth Air Force, Republic of Korea Air Force |
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the site of Yeouido Airport?
After the airport was demolished in 1971, the land was redeveloped. Today, the site is occupied by Yeouido Park and the headquarters of major broadcasting corporations, KBS and MBC.
Why did commercial flights stop at Yeouido?
Commercial services ceased at Yeouido in 1958 primarily because the airport was prone to flooding during the summer rainy season. These operations were moved to Gimpo International Airport.
Which airlines operated from Yeouido Airport?
Historically, the airport was served by Imperial Japanese Airways, Korean National Airlines (KNA), and Northwest Orient Airlines.
Was Yeouido Airport always an international airport?
No. It began as an Imperial Army training base and airstrip in 1916. It was upgraded to serve international air services in 1929.
What destinations could be reached from Yeouido before 1958?
Destinations included Tokyo, Fukuoka, Mukden, Dalian, Xinjing, Hong Kong, Cheju, Kangnung, Kwangju, and Pusan, among others.