The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in South Korea has halted the construction of the 'Garden of Gratitude' project in Gwanghwamun Square, citing violations of urban planning laws and regulations. The ministry issued an official order to halt the project after noting that the Seoul city government did not properly notify or obtain necessary changes to urban planning before proceeding with construction. This project is intended to honor 22 countries that participated in the Korean War, but has faced criticism for its design, and there is now a goal for completion by April of this year.

The ministry pointed out specific procedural shortcomings, such as the failure to make necessary alterations to city planning requirements when erecting structures in a public square, which is classified as urban planning facilities. It also indicated that the city did not receive the proper approvals from local authorities before creating exhibition spaces in the underground area. Although there were concerns about safety related to the construction site, it was determined that current conditions were sufficient for passage through the thawing period, although safety measures need to be implemented promptly in response to an upcoming BTS concert expected to attract large crowds.

As a result of the construction halt, the Seoul city government will have to restart the urban management planning processes and adjust the construction plan accordingly. This is expected to take additional time, potentially delaying the project further as the city works to gather community input and negotiate with relevant authorities, a process which could take between one to three months depending on the nature of the changes requested by the community and other stakeholders.