Access Blocked at Newly Occupied Apartment Complex
Developer Considers Legal Action for "Obstruction of Business"
A conflict over unpaid construction costs between the construction company and the developer has erupted at a newly built apartment complex in Bukgu, Gwangju. The construction company has occupied the apartment entrance with a forklift. As a result, residents are complaining about inconveniences, such as difficulties for moving trucks to enter the complex.
A forklift placed at the entrance of the apartment complex is blocking the entry of moving vehicles and others. Provided by Bukgu District
According to Bukgu District Office and Bukbu Police Station on May 1, a 112 emergency call was received at around 11 a.m. the previous day from an apartment complex in Unam-dong, Bukgu, Gwangju, reporting that "a forklift is blocking the entrance, making passage difficult."
At the scene, it was confirmed that five to six representatives from the construction company had placed the forklift near the entrance, restricting vehicle access. While pedestrian passage was possible, large vehicles such as moving trucks and other cargo vehicles were unable to enter.
On the same day, construction company A posted a notice inside the complex, stating, "The developer has paid only 13.5 billion won out of the total construction cost of 19.7 billion won and has not paid the remaining balance." The company added, "In order to recover the unpaid construction receivables, we have no choice but to exercise our rights and authority over the collateral."
The construction company also asserted, "According to the construction contract, we are exercising a lien on the completed building until payment is completed," urging the developer to pay the outstanding construction costs.
A forklift parked in the passageway of a newly built apartment is blocking vehicle access. Photo by Bukgu Office
The apartment complex consists of three buildings, each 33 stories above ground, with a total of 303 units. Move-ins began in February. On this day, some households were in the process of moving, but due to the forklift blockade, moving trucks were unable to enter the complex.
The developer is reportedly considering filing a criminal complaint against the construction company for obstruction of business in response to this action.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
