The Geum River is the third longest river in South Korea after the Han River and the Nakdong River. Originating from'Tteunbong spring' in Sinmu Mountain, Jangsu-gun, Jeonbuk Province, and moving through Chungbuk Province, Daejeon, and Chungnam Province, the river is 401km long and ends in the West Sea. The river has witnessed rise and fall of the Korean people. The Geum River is named so because it is as beautiful as unfolded silk. Core of the Geum River restoration project is threefold; to secure water source, control flood, improve water quality to rebuild ecology, and to restore the Geum River waterway for development of culture and economy in the region.
The river, in which, ecologically important swamps and habitats for migratory birds are located, has important task of preserving river ecology and improving water quality because of wide scatter of farms. Especially the mouth of the river is full of lowlands, so flood preventive measures by maintenance of waterway and reinforcing banks became critical. The Baekma River, which connects Gongju and Buyeo, ancient Baekje capitals, is difficult for ship to sail due to accumulation.
Therefore, 3.8 million m2 of water course will be restored,18km long bank will be built or reinforced, artificial swamp built and water-friendly area and reservoir will be installed. To secure water sources, three weirs will be built, which will resultin 110 million m3 more source.
The Geum River restoration is synonymous with saving theonce-brilliant Baekje culture. If the 67km ship road is restored and the civilization is revived, local economy will be so.
