For the first time in a decade, Jeju Island is easing construction regulations around its designated cultural heritage sites. The Jeju UNESCO World Heritage Center announced on January 10 that it will adjust the criteria for construction activities in the historical and cultural preservation areas surrounding 100 of the 150 designated cultural heritage sites. These preservation areas are established to protect the natural scenery and historical or cultural values within 300 meters of the heritage boundaries, which include sites like Jeongseon’s Rocky Mountain and Daejeong Confucian School.

The decision to relax these regulations marks a significant change since the last such revision in 2016. The area where the Jeju Cultural Heritage Committee has the authority to decide on construction permits has reduced from a total of 3.76 square kilometers to 2.25 square kilometers, which is a reduction of around 40%. This new criteria will take effect starting from the announcement date on the 13th. Local authorities argue that these changes will reflect the changed circumstances surrounding cultural heritage and aim to improve unnecessary restrictions, thus alleviating discomfort for residents while enhancing the protection of cultural heritage.

The Jeju UNESCO World Heritage Center emphasizes that the revisions aim to balance heritage preservation with the needs of the community. Further details about the changes can be found on the Jeju provincial website and through the cultural departments of Jeju City and Seogwipo City. The revisions are positioned not only as a relief for local construction efforts but also as a step towards maintaining the integrity and significance of cultural heritage in Jeju Island.