"If You're Going to Do This, Just Live Alone"... Residents Outraged as 'Plant Villain' Occupies Rooftop and Parking Lot

Flowerpots, Parasol, and Tent Take Over the Rooftop
A Bathtub Appears in the Parking Lot
Warning Notices Ignored

Controversy has arisen after a resident of a multi-family housing complex was found to be occupying shared spaces such as the rooftop and parking lot as if they were a "private garden." The situation sparked outrage online after photos were released showing flowerpots, bathtubs, and even tents installed in these areas.

Several types of flowerpots, parasols, and tents are placed on the rooftop of a villa. Online community

On August 13, a post titled "Help with the Plant Villain in Our Villa" was uploaded to an online community. The author, identified as Mr. A, who stated they live in the building, began by saying, "There is a plant villain living in the building. I am writing to seek advice and a solution." According to Mr. A, even though the management office posted warning notices, the resident in question ignored them and left the items in place.

The photos shared by Mr. A show a rooftop so densely packed with various flowerpots that the walkways have become narrow, resembling a "botanical garden." The rooftop also features a giant parasol, large solar panels, numerous water containers, and even a mosquito net tent, suggesting that someone may be staying there. Mr. A expressed disbelief, saying, "I saw some greenery on the rooftop and went up out of curiosity, only to find a scene beyond my imagination-truly unprecedented."

Flowerpots, bathtubs, and paint cans are placed in the villa parking lot. Online community

Additionally, one side of the parking lot is piled with flowerpots, basins, and paint cans, while a bathtub filled with water sits nearby. Motorcycles and bicycles are tangled together, making it difficult to pass through. Mr. A added, "As far as I know, a single resident is managing all of this. Where should I report it?" seeking advice from others.

After reading Mr. A's story, online commenters responded critically, saying, "This could be a violation of building or fire safety regulations," "If they're going to do this, they should just live alone in a house," "What are they doing in a shared space?" "It makes you wonder if they're growing and selling the plants as a side business," "Those items look heavy; I worry about the building's structural integrity," and "Water might leak and cause mold on the walls," among other concerns.

Meanwhile, under Article 16 of the current Act on Installation and Management of Fire-Fighting Systems, it is prohibited to stack objects or install obstacles around evacuation facilities, fire compartments, or fire protection facilities. Violations result in fines of 1 million won for the first offense, 2 million won for the second, and 3 million won for the third. In particular, failure to comply with corrective orders or serious violations such as blocking emergency exits can result in immediate imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to 15 million won.