Sangju Weir
Sangju Weir (상주보; map; Sangju-bo) is the first of eight Nakdong River weirs built by the Four Rivers Restoration Project (2009~2011).
The watergate consists of 230 meters of fixed and 105 meters of movable beams. They regulate river flow, trapping water for farmers during droughts, and releasing it during downpours. Two hydroelectric power plants send 15.9 GWh per year to nearby homes.
Sangju Weir’s design represents the local legend of Obok-dong (오복동). A lumberjack, Obok followed a deer into a nearby cave and discovered a utopia.
The five flat, pedal shaped stacks atop the weir’s three towers resemble a rose. In local legend, the flower symbolizes utopia and fruitful harvest, from which Sangju gained its wealth.
To continue on the Cross-Country and Nakdonggang Bike Path, you must cross the weir’s 540 meter bridge. Along the way, spot bicycles etched into the sides of the towers, rest in a nearby observatory.
The Sangju-bo Certification Center perches on the south side of the weir. Cross over a nearby parking lot to find the weir’s management building. Open to the public, it holds a small library, exhibits explaining the weir’s design and purpose, bathrooms and vending machines.
Just upriver, find the futurist Gyeongcheon Bridge hopping onto Gyeongcheon Island Park (경천섬공원; map). Created by the Sangju Weir, this bit of land in the Nakdong River fills with strolling and picnicking families in warmer months.
