Nowon District Pushes Ahead with Baeksa Village Redevelopment as Court Dismisses Injunction to Halt Construction

Conflict Over Stray Cat Protection
3,178 Units Scheduled for Completion in 2029

The Baeksa Village redevelopment project in Nowon District, Seoul (Mayor Oh Seungrok) is moving forward in earnest after resolving various pending issues. The court has dismissed an injunction request to halt construction, which was filed on the grounds of protecting stray cats.

Oh Seungrok, Mayor of Nowon District (right), visiting the construction site of Baeksa Village. Provided by Nowon District Office.

The court recently dismissed the injunction request filed against the construction company to stop demolition work related to the redevelopment, stating, "There is insufficient objective evidence to conclude that the construction poses a significant threat to the survival of animals." It was also noted that protective measures, such as creating passageways for stray cats, have already been implemented during the construction process.

The Baeksa Village redevelopment project is a large-scale initiative to improve deteriorated residential areas that were once known as Seoul's last hillside village. This area was formed in the late 1960s as migrants settled during urban development, but it remained under development restrictions for a long time, limiting improvements to the residential environment.

Although it was designated as a housing redevelopment and maintenance zone in 2009, the project faced long delays due to changing conditions and conflicts among residents. The foundation for progress was established when Seoul Housing & Communities Corporation (SH) was designated as the project implementer, and Nowon District and the Seoul Metropolitan Government continued consultations.

Currently, resident relocation has been completed and most demolition work is finished, with the main construction scheduled to begin in the first half of this year. Upon completion, a residential complex comprising a total of 3,178 units will be created, with the goal of completion set for 2029.

The district has also focused on protecting the ecological environment while advancing the project. In cooperation with SH Corporation, protective measures such as securing passageways for stray cats and providing temporary feeding areas near the construction zone have been implemented. The district continues to communicate with related organizations and on-site personnel to address necessary issues at each stage of construction.

Mayor Oh Seungrok of Nowon District stated, "The Baeksa Village redevelopment is an important project that will fulfill the long-standing goal of improving Nowon's residential environment," adding, "We will manage the project responsibly to ensure its stable completion."

Bird's-eye view of Baeksa Village. Provided by Nowon District Office.