The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on Monday issued a final order to Seoul Metropolitan Government to halt construction of the "Garden of Gratitude" project at Gwanghwamun Square, citing violations of legal procedures. Seoul expressed "deep regret" over the decision, calling it a ruling that "does not recognize the inherent authority of local governments," while pledging to expedite administrative procedures to minimize project delays.
The ministry stated that the Garden of Gratitude project failed to follow mandatory procedures under the National Land Planning Act, including urban management plan amendments, implementation plan approvals, and development activity permits for the installation of above-ground symbolic structures and creation of underground media and exhibition spaces. The ministry had issued a preliminary notice of the work stoppage order on January 9, solicited Seoul's response, and finalized the order after concluding that legal violations remained unresolved.
Seoul pushed back, stating: "We express deep regret that the ministry issued a final work stoppage order despite our sufficient explanations and requests for consultation." The city has submitted a response to the ministry pledging to immediately address the issues raised, including preparing and announcing implementation plans for above-ground symbolic structure construction, and completing urban management plan amendments and implementation plans for underground media spaces as required under the National Land Planning Act.
However, the city noted that "it is fortunate the ministry partially accepted Seoul's need for safety measures" by excluding from the stoppage order work such as installing cover panels for underground exhibition hall ceilings and reinforcing underground exterior walls, with completion permitted by February 20. Seoul stated it would "complete the permitted safety work without delay and ensure thorough on-site safety management." The city plans to expedite compliance with National Land Planning Act procedures to resume construction while ensuring site safety during the spring thaw period.
The Garden of Gratitude is a symbolic space being developed by Seoul at Gwanghwamun Square to express gratitude and respect for the 22 nations that participated in the Korean War and to honor the sacrifice and dedication of veterans. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok raised concerns during a site inspection in November, asking whether "the project was pushed forward without proper permits and procedures." The ministry subsequently launched a review of potential legal violations and conducted site inspections, leading to discussions of a work stoppage.