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UNESCO Urges Halt to High-Rise Redevelopment Near Jongmyo, South Korea’s Heritage Chief Says

The warning calls for suspending city approval pending a World Heritage impact review by experts.

This file photo taken Nov. 11, 2025, shows Jongmyo Shrine surrounded by buildings in central Seoul. (Yonhap)
In this file photo, Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young (L) and Huh Min, chief of the Korea Heritage Service, visit Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Seoul, for a press conference on Nov. 7, 2025. (Yonhap)
Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young speaks during an interview with Yonhap News Agency held at his office in the central city of Sejong on Nov. 10, 2025. (Yonhap)

Overview

  • The Korea Heritage Service said UNESCO sent an official letter warning the project could harm Jongmyo’s integrity and recommending a Heritage Impact Assessment.
  • UNESCO advised that Seoul’s approval be paused until the agency and its advisers complete a positive review of the assessment.
  • Following its new domestic designation of a broad “world heritage zone” around the shrine, the KHS plans to formally request a World Heritage Impact Assessment from the city.
  • Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young pledged to use all lawful measures to protect the site and urged a temporary pause with broader public consultation.
  • Seoul’s plan permits buildings up to 145 meters across from the shrine, with Mayor Oh Se-hoon citing no shadowing in simulations and a proposed 100-meter green space.