Dilapidated Seoul housing area to be redeveloped into 35-story, 2,800-unit complex

A dilapidated low-rise residential area in Banghak-dong, Dobong-gu, Seoul, situated at the foot of Dobongsan mountain, is set for a major transformation. The Seoul Metropolitan Government has approved a "Speedy Integration Planning" (SIP) for a housing redevelopment project that will see the area become a residential complex of up to 35 stories, housing approximately 2,800 units.

This redevelopment aims to overcome previous development challenges caused by height restrictions imposed due to the proximity of Bukhansan and Dobongsan mountains. The project, initially facing difficulties due to these height limitations and delays in resident consensus on scale, has been divided into two zones: Banghak-dong 638 and 641. Despite the division, the plan ensures connectivity in terms of landscape, infrastructure, and pedestrian flow, maintaining a sense of a single community.

The zoning for the area will be upgraded from the current General Residential Zone II (limited to 7 stories) to General Residential Zone III, permitting taller and larger structures. Special architectural zone provisions will allow for the height relaxation up to 35 stories. The planned complex will comprise 986 units in the Banghak-dong 638 area and 1,813 units in the 641 area, totaling 2,799 units.

The design emphasizes harmony with nature, with building orientations planned to maximize views of the four northeastern mountains: Bukhansan, Dobongsan, Suraksan, and Bulamsan. Open community facilities will be established near Dodang-ro 17-gil, and a silver care center will be included in the Banghak-dong 641 area to support elderly care services. Kim Chang-gyu, head of Seoul's Urban Space Bureau, stated that the area will be transformed into a nature-friendly residential complex embracing the mountains.