The temporarily opened section of the Yongsan Park returned land (Yongsan Children's Garden) has been fully opened to the public as of December 30. Visitors can now freely enter without prior reservation.
Previously, the government had temporarily opened and operated the 5th Military Officers' Housing Complex since August 2020 and the Yongsan Children's Garden since May 2023. Entry to the Yongsan Children's Garden was only permitted to visitors who had made advance reservations, due to identity verification and security screening requirements. However, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport explained that there were concerns this closed management approach limited the park's activation.
There have also been calls in the National Assembly for an audit regarding issues such as soil contamination remediation, the presidential office housewarming event, and suspicions over the selection of operating contractors. Taking these factors into account, the relevant regulations have been amended to remove clauses that restricted access. The name "Yongsan Children's Garden" will also be changed in the first half of next year, based on public opinion, to ensure continuity when the park is officially established, so that it is not limited to any particular group, age, or target audience. From the planning stage of the Yongsan Park project, a Yongsan Park Fiscal Execution Evaluation Committee will be established to monitor proper use of the budget.
This year, soil monitoring was newly introduced in areas frequently visited by park-goers, and starting next year, regular environmental monitoring will be conducted, including air quality and soil. An environmental management manual covering the entire temporary opening process will also be prepared. Meanwhile, from today until February 1 next year, a media art exhibition program will be held every Friday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. near the General's Residence in Yongsan Children's Garden.
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