Seoul’s Green Vision Scaled Back: Forest Project Near Cheong Wa Dae Scrapped

A Seoul Metropolitan Government plan to create expansive forest areas and restore historic waterways surrounding Cheong Wa Dae has been abandoned, according to reports on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The decision marks a significant shift in the city’s post-presidential office relocation strategy for the area.

Project Details and Initial Goals

Originally proposed in June 2022, the project aimed to invest 45 billion won (approximately $30 million USD) to transform roughly 2.2 kilometers of key roads – including Hyoja-ro and Samcheong-ro – into greener, more pedestrian-friendly corridors. The plan also included the restoration of the Baegundong Stream and Samcheongdong Stream Korea Herald.

Shift in Priorities and Security Concerns

The initiative was conceived following the opening of Cheong Wa Dae to the public in May 2022, after the presidential office relocated to Yongsan under the Yoon Suk Yeol administration. The Seoul Metropolitan Government envisioned a more accessible and environmentally conscious space for visitors. However, the project faced delays due to security considerations after President Yoon decided to utilize the Cheong Wa Dae state guest house for official events Korea Herald.

Impact of Presidential Return

The ultimate cancellation of the project occurred after President Lee Jae Myung moved the presidential office back to Cheong Wa Dae from Yongsan, according to the report Korea Herald. This change in leadership and the resumption of Cheong Wa Dae’s traditional function as the presidential office appear to have altered the city’s priorities for the surrounding area.

Road Modifications Near Cheong Wa Dae

In June 2022, Seoul began reviewing regulations on road operation with plans to reduce lanes on Hyoja-ro and expand sidewalks by up to 4 meters to accommodate increased pedestrian traffic near Cheong Wa Dae Seoul Metropolitan Government. The area saw a significant increase in visitors after the presidential residence opened to the public, with foot traffic on Hyoja-ro increasing substantially Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Cheong Wa Dae’s Historical Significance

Cheong Wa Dae, also known as the Blue House, has served as the executive office and residence of the South Korean president since 1948. Located in Seoul’s Jongno District, it stands behind the Gyeongbokgung Palace Wikipedia. From 2022 to 2025, during the Yoon Suk Yeol administration, it was opened to the public as a museum and urban park Wikipedia.