Urban Redevelopment and Historical Preservation in Jongno-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 종로구 익선동
Jongno-gu, located at the core of Seoul, is pursuing a redevelopment strategy that prioritizes historical and cultural preservation over large-scale apartment construction.
Rather than sweeping reconstruction, the district is advancing selective redevelopment and urban regeneration projects that align with its unique identity.
This overview summarizes key redevelopment initiatives and related apartment transaction prices in Jongno-gu as of December 2025.
Urban Redevelopment Direction in Jongno-gu
Jongno-gu is distinct from other Seoul districts in its redevelopment philosophy.
Instead of focusing on high-density apartment complexes, the area emphasizes regeneration that respects historical context.
This approach aims to balance improved living conditions with preservation of cultural assets.
As a result, development speed is slower, but long-term value remains strong.
Jongno-type Rapid Maintenance Project
Jongno-gu is actively promoting its own maintenance model known as the Jongno-type Rapid Maintenance Project.
This initiative focuses on improving aging residential areas without full-scale demolition.
One notable area is around Haengchon-dong 210-2.
This site has been selected as a candidate for Seoul Rapid Integrated Planning redevelopment and is currently in the planning stage.
Because redevelopment is still in early phases, no new apartment complexes exist yet.
However, nearby apartment prices influence market expectations.
Kyungheegung Xi in Seodaemun-gu serves as a price reference.
Recent transaction prices for 84㎡ units range from approximately 1.6 to 1.8 billion KRW.
Sewoon District Redevelopment Promotion Project
The Sewoon district, spanning Jongno and Euljiro, is one of downtown Seoul’s most important redevelopment zones.
The project focuses on revitalizing aging commercial and residential buildings.
Development is proceeding in phases.
Rather than standard apartments, the area is seeing mixed-use buildings and compact high-end residences.
Hillstate Sewoon Central is a representative mixed-use residential project.
Actual transaction prices for 49㎡ units are around 1 billion KRW.
Urban Regeneration and Preservation-Oriented Areas
Many parts of Jongno-gu have strong historical value.
As a result, urban regeneration projects are favored over full reconstruction.
The Changsin–Sungin area is designated as a leading urban regeneration zone.
Community-driven initiatives aim to improve living environments while maintaining neighborhood character.
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village and Bukchon Hanok Village are successful examples.
These areas demonstrate how preservation-focused regeneration can enhance both tourism and residential value.
Apartment Transaction Prices in Jongno-gu
Residential areas in Jongno-gu are limited in number.
This scarcity has led to consistently high apartment prices.
Kyungheegung’s Morning, a mixed-use complex, recorded prices of approximately 1.4 to 1.6 billion KRW for 84㎡ units.
Lotte Castle Florence in Changsin-dong shows transaction prices around 1.0 to 1.15 billion KRW for similar sizes.
Investment and Living Considerations
Apartment supply in central Seoul remains extremely limited.
This high scarcity continues to support strong demand.
Proximity to major business districts such as Gwanghwamun, City Hall, and Jongno adds a clear location premium.
Office workers seeking short commutes remain a key demand group.
However, Jongno-gu is subject to strict historical and cultural regulations.
Before any investment, it is essential to verify development feasibility through local authorities and urban planning departments.
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