Seoul Finalizes Expedited Integrated Plan for Banghak-dong Area... Transforming into a Forest-Side Complex Embracing the Four Northeastern Mountains

Low-rise Residential Areas Near the Bukhan Mountain Altitude District in Banghak-dong
A Community Complex on the Slopes of Dobong Mountain
Connecting Nature, City, and People

On July 28, the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that it has finalized the expedited integrated redevelopment plan for the residential renewal project at 638 and 641 Banghak-dong, Dobong-gu. The old low-rise residential area, which was previously difficult to develop due to height restrictions enforced by its proximity to the Bukhan Mountain altitude district, is expected to be reborn as a large-scale complex of up to 35 stories and approximately 2,800 units.

Seoul Metropolitan Government. The Asia Business Daily Database

This area, situated on the slopes of Dobong Mountain and designated as a category 2 (up to 7 stories) general residential district, has pursued redevelopment since 2021. However, the project faced difficulties due to concerns over its feasibility arising from scenic height restrictions and delays in reaching resident consensus regarding the appropriate scale.

Initially, the redevelopment plan aimed to develop the area as a single block when it was submitted as a candidate for the expedited integrated redevelopment plan in 2021. However, to improve viability, the city revised the plan last year to split the site into two blocks—638 and 641—and ultimately selected both areas as candidates for the expedited integrated redevelopment plan.

The latest initiative incorporates three key principles: ▲creating a flagship complex focused on a livable, integrated residential zone; ▲establishing a nature-friendly complex adjacent to the four northeastern mountains; and ▲developing a pleasant and cohesive street environment that connects the local community’s lifestyle and cultural spaces.

By planning the two blocks in an integrated manner, the project will link visual corridors and public walkways to the four northeastern mountains (Bukhan Mountain, Dobong Mountain, Surak Mountain, and Bulam Mountain) and create localized community hubs at key junctions, thereby enhancing public amenities. Based on these plans, the zoning will be upgraded from category 2 (up to 7 stories) to category 3, ensuring a floor area ratio of at least 270%, and—thanks to special architectural exemptions—enabling the construction of buildings up to 35 stories high.

The arrangement of residential towers will provide views of the four northeastern mountains, and parks and open plazas will be installed throughout the complex. The parks and green spaces will be interconnected by walkways, enabling residents to enjoy a nature-centered “forest-side” residential environment within the complex.

Parks will be created around public offices and social welfare facilities, while open plazas at the main entrances will enhance the open landscape. Additionally, community sports facilities, event squares, and children’s playgrounds will be organically linked to green spaces throughout the development.

Reflecting changing local conditions from the extension of the Ui-Sinseol Line to Banghak Station, the plan includes street-facing commercial facilities along Dodang-ro. Along Sirubong-ro, which borders Dobong Mountain, building heights will be adjusted in stages to harmonize with the surroundings, and community streets along the edge of the complex will feature mid- and low-rise clusters and green, open outdoor courtyards to facilitate a pedestrian-friendly environment.

In particular, the plan for the 641 Banghak-dong area includes a senior care center (total ground floor area: 3,500 square meters) to provide customized care services for elderly residents.

Kim Chang-kyu, head of the Urban Space Headquarters at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, stated, "With the extension of the Ui-Sinseol Line to Banghak Station expected to further drive development in Banghak-dong, we will spare no effort in supporting subsequent procedures to ensure residents can enjoy a comfortable and convenient living environment."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.