Gu-ryong Village to see up to 28 stories, 2,120 units; '100% original resident resettlement' uncertain

Seoul plans to redevelop the Gu-ryong village, the last remaining slum in the capital, into a public housing complex with up to 28 stories and 2,120 units. The project, approved by the city's third public housing integrated review committee, aims to transform the area into an eco-friendly and pedestrian-friendly residential zone.

However, the plan's commitment to '100% resettlement for original residents' is in question. While the city aims for completion by 2031, significant hurdles remain. Over 60% of the new units will be 'Mirinae House,' Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon's long-term public housing program. Although Mirinae House offers more flexible income criteria than standard public rentals, the required security deposit, reflecting Gangnam's market rates, may be unaffordable for low-income original residents.

Compounding these issues are ongoing disputes over resident compensation and development rights, which have delayed the project since its designation as an urban development zone in 2012. Following a fire in January that displaced 181 residents, the Seoul Housing & Communities Corporation (SH) provided support, but some residents continue to live in temporary shelters, demanding conversion-type rentals. SH has filed eviction lawsuits against 253 households, but legal proceedings are slow, with notices only served to about half the targeted households due to difficulties in locating residents.