The Democracy Movement Memorial Foundation is considering the playground of Deoksu Elementary School in Jongno District, Seoul, as a potential site for a new Democracy Memorial Hall. This location had previously been selected for the same purpose 19 years ago but was abandoned due to strong opposition from the school and parents. With plans to reconsider this site, significant backlash is expected. The memorial foundation aims to expand its facilities within the 'Four Main Gates of Seoul' to encompass the history of Korean democracy, which has evolved since the 12-3 insurrection, and intends to build a six-story structure by June 2029.

The Seoul Central Education Office reached out to Deoksu Elementary School on a recent date to ask for feedback regarding the proposed construction of the memorial hall on the school's playground. This request follows a year during which the foundation opened a renovated human rights memorial hall at a different location, hoping to establish a larger venue for commemorating democracy in the city. The chairman of the foundation stated in a report last year that alternative sites were being sought due to constraints at existing locations, leading to the official recognition of new construction as a part of its agenda.

However, the playground in question serves 353 students who have used it for over 20 years, highlighting a complex ownership situation. Originally owned by the Seoul Education Office, it was exchanged in 1995 with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, which currently retains ownership. Since 2003, Deoksu Elementary has renewed a free lease annually with the ministry to use the playground. As the proposal continues to gain attention, it raises critical questions about community space for children versus the memorial's significance in honoring democratic history.