Seoul Mayor Challenges Central Government Over High-Rise Construction Dispute
Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has raised concerns about the central government’s handling of a conflict surrounding the construction of high-rise buildings in Sewoon District 4, an area near the Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul. On the 11th, Oh expressed his frustration, stating, “The government is turning the issue into a political matter,” and added, “I suspect it may be due to the local elections.”
During an appearance on CBS’s Kim Hyun-jung’s News Show, Oh defended the proposal to relax height restrictions in Sewoon District 4, arguing that it would not harm the scenic view of the Jongmyo Shrine. He explained, “Legally, if there is no impact within 100 meters of Jongmyo’s boundary, it is acceptable. The first building in Sewoon District 4 is located 170 meters from Jongno’s boundary and 500 meters from the main hall (Jeongjeon).”
Oh also criticized the government for what he described as an overreach in interpreting the law. He noted, “The government is expanding the interpretation of the law itself. Even the Supreme Court ruled that it was excessive, yet the Prime Minister insists, ‘The Supreme Court is wrong,’ and ‘We will create a new law to prevent construction.’”
This statement came in response to Prime Minister Kim Min-seok’s recent criticism of Seoul’s policy during his visit to the Jongmyo Shrine. Oh remarked, “The Prime Minister uses expressions like ‘I feel suffocated’ and ‘I am overwhelmed,’ but the discussion should be scientific, not emotional.”
Demolition of Sewoon Plaza: A Necessary Step
Oh also addressed the need to demolish Sewoon Plaza, which has stood since its construction 58 years ago. He argued, “It is time to tear it down.” His reasoning includes a recent incident where a pedestrian was seriously injured when concrete fell and hit their foot two years ago.
He emphasized the benefits of the demolition, stating, “A 100-meter-wide green corridor connecting directly to Namsan in front of Jongmyo will make the shrine stand out even more. The biggest beneficiary of demolishing Sewoon Plaza will be Jongmyo itself.”
Key Points of the Debate
- Legal Interpretation: The mayor pointed out that current legal standards do not support the government’s stance on height restrictions.
- Public Safety Concerns: The recent injury caused by falling concrete highlights the risks associated with the existing structure.
- Cultural Preservation: The proposed green corridor aims to enhance the visibility and significance of the Jongmyo Shrine.
- Political Implications: Oh suggested that the government’s approach might be influenced by upcoming local elections.
Conclusion
The debate over the construction of high-rise buildings in Sewoon District 4 reflects a broader tension between urban development and cultural preservation. As the discussion continues, the focus remains on balancing legal interpretations, public safety, and the protection of historical sites like the Jongmyo Shrine. Mayor Oh Se-hoon’s arguments underscore the need for a rational and evidence-based approach to such complex issues.