Jongno-gu Announces Comprehensive Revision of Yulgok-ro District Unit Plan
Customized Development Reflecting Local Characteristics Also to Be Promoted
On May 30, Jongno-gu in Seoul announced a comprehensive revision of the "Yulgok-ro District Unit Plan," which centers on significant regulatory easing, including an increase in floor area ratios and the relaxation of development scale restrictions in the Yulgok-ro area. This revision aims to promote feasible development while focusing on the systematic and sustainable management of the aging urban core.
The targeted area covers approximately 446,000 square meters across Wonnam-dong, Inui-dong, Yeongeon-dong, Yeonji-dong, Hyoje-dong, and Chungsin-dong. It is adjacent to medical facilities such as Seoul National University Hospital and cultural heritage sites like Jongmyo and Changgyeonggung, and also boasts excellent transportation accessibility.
According to the revised plan, the floor area ratio for general commercial zones will be raised from 400% to 600% (with a permitted maximum of 660%) along main roads, and from 400% to 500% (with a permitted maximum of 550%) in secondary areas. For Type 3 general residential zones, the ratio will increase from 250% to 275%, and the maximum building height will be relaxed to allow up to 20 meters when incentives are applied.
Development flexibility has also been expanded to reflect the area's characteristic abundance of small plots. While the minimum development area of 150 square meters will be maintained for main roads, plots of 30 square meters or more can now be developed subject to review by the Urban Architecture Joint Committee. The restriction on maximum development size per block will be abolished, and sites exceeding 3,000 square meters will be designated as "Special Planning Zones" for systematic management.
Area-specific development will also be promoted. The vicinity of Jongmyo will be developed as a space specializing in traditional culture, while old streets and Pimat-gil will be renovated as specialized streets, encouraging retail facilities on the ground and lower floors and creating pedestrian-friendly environments. The area around Seoul National University Hospital will attract research facilities and major corporate headquarters to foster a new business hub within the city center. Worker support facilities such as childcare centers for infants and young children will also be expanded to develop the district into a business area that balances work and life.
Jung Moonheon, mayor of Jongno-gu, stated, "This revision will serve as a milestone in creating an urban space where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony," adding, "We will do our utmost to ensure that feasible development is achieved while preserving Jongno's cultural dignity."
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