Sokcho's landmark Ferris wheel faces uncertain fate as court conducts on-site inspection

A court has conducted an on-site inspection to examine alleged legal violations in the construction of a large Ferris wheel at Sokcho Beach in Gangwon Province.

The administrative first division of the Seoul High Court's Chuncheon bench, presided over by Chief Judge Lee Eun-hye, held a verification hearing Friday as part of an appeal filed by the Ferris wheel's operator against Sokcho city over the cancellation of a development permit.

Sokcho city had argued at the second hearing, held July 15, that an on-site inspection was unnecessary. The court ruled that a direct examination of the Ferris wheel's location and structure was needed, however, and accepted the operator's request for the inspection.

The court conducted a closed inspection of the Ferris wheel facility and the surrounding Sokcho Beach area for about an hour and a half starting at 2 p.m. Friday. Representatives from the court, Sokcho city and the operator were all present.

During the inspection, the city raised concerns that the facility — which houses high-voltage electrical equipment — had been permitted as a temporary structure rather than a permanent building. It also argued that some installations, including the Ferris wheel and its boarding platform, encroach on public waters.

The city further contended that cultural and assembly facilities are required to account for more than half of the structure's total floor use, but that commercial spaces such as cafes make up a larger share. Safety issues related to the installation of the Ferris wheel and other structures were also raised.

The operator disputed all of these claims, leaving the two sides at odds.

The appellate court plans to hold a third hearing on Oct. 28 to continue deliberations.