Seoul to Negotiate Land Purchases for Urban Natural Parks in 2027

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has issued a notice announcing its plan to acquire private land located within designated Urban Natural Park Zones through negotiated purchases for the year 2027.

Urban Natural Park Zones are specific areas within the city limits that have been officially earmarked for public park development or preservation. However, for many decades, much of this land has remained under private ownership, with property owners facing significant development restrictions. This initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to resolve this long-standing issue, often referred to as the “long-term unexecuted urban planning facilities problem” or the “park sunset clause” in South Korea. This policy typically mandates governments to either purchase such land or lift the development restrictions if the designated facility, like a park, has not been developed within 20 years of its designation.

The negotiated purchase scheme allows the city to acquire these properties to secure vital green spaces and develop new public parks, thereby enhancing the urban environment and contributing to the quality of life for Seoul residents. While this initial notice confirms the SMG’s intent for land acquisition in 2027, it serves as a preliminary announcement.

Further official announcements are anticipated, which will detail the specific target urban natural park zones, precise eligibility requirements for landowners interested in selling their property, and the comprehensive application procedures, including key dates and deadlines. Property owners within these designated zones are advised to monitor future notices from the Seoul Metropolitan Government for detailed information on how to participate in the program.

Source: 서울특별시 — Original Notice (Korean)