Jongno-gu Promotes 'Legalization of Unauthorized Traditional Temples'

Legalization of Previously Unauthorized Buildings Now Possible

Jongno-gu, Seoul (Mayor Jeong Munheon) announced on the 9th that it will form a "Traditional Temple Task Force (TF)" to enhance the stability and value of traditional temples and operate it for three years until 2028. The formation of the TF aims to promote the legalization of traditional temples without usage approval in line with the special provisions implemented by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and to contribute to the protection of property rights and value enhancement.

Jeong Munheon, Mayor of Jongno-gu. Provided by Jongno-gu Office.

The target buildings are traditional temple structures completed before April 24, 2023. They must be built on land used as religious sites and be structures erected on land owned by the traditional temple or the organization to which the traditional temple belongs.

Applying this special usage approval allows some buildings that were previously illegal under the Building Act to become legalized. Jongno-gu plans to form a TF team centered on the Architecture Division, along with the Cultural Heritage Division, Urban Development Division, and Urban Greenery Division, and cooperate with the Jongno-gu Architects Association to support on-site investigations for the legalization of traditional temple buildings.

On the 1st of next month, a meeting will be held to listen to the issues and difficulties of each temple and propose solutions. Traditional temple officials and department representatives will attend.

Mayor Jeong Munheon stated, "This measure is an opportunity to preserve the historical and cultural value of traditional temples and resolve practical legal issues," adding, "We will provide prompt and systematic administrative support and strive to ensure smooth application of the special provisions."