Gwangjin-gu, led by District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho, has completed the removal of an illegal structure — a makeshift stall — that had occupied state-owned land along Jungnangcheon for more than 30 years, after persuading the occupant to dismantle it voluntarily.
The move came at the start of the ninth directly elected district administration as part of efforts to restore a safe and pleasant riverside environment for residents.
The stall, located on state-owned land near 498-63 Junggok-dong along Jungnangcheon, was an approximately 36-square-meter structure made up of shipping containers, tarpaulins, and tables and chairs, and had been operated without authorization for over three decades.
Over the years, the site drew consistent complaints about noise from intoxicated patrons, fire hazards from on-site cooking, environmental pollution, and sanitation problems.
Concerns grew particularly ahead of the heavy-rain season, as the risk of flood damage and safety incidents along the river increased.
In response, the district conducted a comprehensive survey of illegal structures along the river, formed a task force headed by the deputy district mayor, drew up a remediation plan, and carried out regular on-site inspections of the Jungnangcheon area.
Rather than resorting to a unilateral forced demolition, the district prioritized dialogue and negotiation with the occupant. Beginning in March, officials requested voluntary removal, held multiple on-site meetings, and simultaneously pursued the necessary administrative steps — including a restoration order and a preliminary notice of administrative enforcement.
Those efforts paid off when the occupant agreed to remove the structure voluntarily. The demolition was carried out over two days, June 30 and July 1, without any physical confrontation. All demolition debris and waste were subsequently collected, leaving the riverbank clean and safe.
"I want to express my gratitude to the staff who brought about the voluntary removal, as well as to the stall owner," district mayor Kim said. "This result at Jungnangcheon was achieved through communication, with the goal of resolving lifestyle inconveniences and preventing safety incidents. We will continue to do our utmost to create a clean and safe riverside environment where residents can walk with peace of mind — and to build a city that is comfortable to live in."
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