The name "Sincheon" means "new stream." This name refers to its being constructed as part of a flood containment project ordered by King Injo in 1778. Since that time, the stream has been continuously subject to human interventions, for flood control, recreation, and other purposes.
In the course of its run, the Sincheon passes through every district of Daegu except one: beginning in Dalseong-gun, it passes between Suseong-gu and Nam-gu and Jung-gu, then flowing through a brief section of Dong-gu and entering Buk-gu, where it reaches its end.
The Sincheon is habitat to a large population of birds, including mallard ducks as well as gray herons and little egrets. In addition, it is habitat for the Eurasian river otter, Lutra lutra. The herons, egrets and otters all feed on the abundant population of fish.