Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has publicly opposed the construction of apartments within Yongsan Park, stating that even an aggressive housing supply policy must adhere to certain principles. His remarks came during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, according to Chosun Ilbo.
Oh’s stance directly contradicts the central government’s proposal to build housing in the park area as part of a broader effort to stabilize the housing market. The mayor argued that developing apartments on the park site crosses a line, even as the government pushes for what it calls a "hard-charging" supply strategy.
The dispute has created a clear divide between the Seoul metropolitan government and the national administration. While the central government views Yongsan Park as a viable location to inject new housing stock, Oh maintains that the site’s public and historical value should take precedence over residential development.
Separately, reports indicate that the government is considering youth rental housing within Yongsan Park as a possible compromise. However, such a plan would face significant administrative and political hurdles before becoming a reality, according to coverage from Daum and Yonhap.
The disagreement signals a potential shift in development dynamics for the area. With the mayor and the central government on opposite sides, the future of any housing project in Yongsan Park remains uncertain.
What to watch next: Whether the central government revises its proposal to accommodate Oh’s objections or pushes forward despite Seoul’s opposition.
