"Rather Move Gimpo Airport"...Why Mokdong Residents Are Upset

[Financial News] Residents of the Mokdong reconstruction complex in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, are strongly opposing the amendment to the altitude restriction standards by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), calling it "excessive regulation hindering the development of the western metropolitan area."
According to the maintenance industry on the 29th, the 'Mokdong Reconstruction Association (Mokjaeryeon)', composed of reconstruction associations and preparation committees of 14 complexes in Mokdong, held a meeting with Representative Hwang Hee (Yangcheon-gap) the previous day and issued a statement opposing the ICAO altitude restriction amendment. They also submitted a 'petition of local residents opposing the ICAO international standards amendment'.
The amendment, which ICAO has announced will take effect in August, designates an area approximately 11-13km in radius from Gimpo Airport as a 'horizontal surface' and limits the height of buildings in this area to a maximum of 90m. If this standard is applied domestically, Mokdong, which was not previously subject to altitude restrictions, as well as Yeongdeungpo, Mapo, Bucheon, Gimpo, and many other areas in the western metropolitan area could newly become subject to regulation.
Mokjaeryeon stated, "The strengthening of altitude restrictions this time could severely impact not only Mokdong reconstruction but also urban maintenance projects throughout Seoul and the entire metropolitan area," claiming that "the Mokdong new town reconstruction project, which has been prepared for years, is at risk of being derailed."
Lee Sang-yong, chairman of Mokjaeryeon, criticized, "We had expected the altitude standards to be relaxed reflecting the advancement of aviation technology and urban densification reality, but the amendment is a regressive measure that strengthens regulations," adding that "it effectively blocks residents' opportunities to improve their living environment and property rights."
Mokjaeryeon demanded through the statement △consideration of relocating Gimpo Airport △clear opposition stance from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport △flexible application of standards considering topography and urban density △establishment of a joint response system among metropolitan local governments.
Representative Hwang Hee stated, "I will actively convey the concerns of Mokdong residents to the National Assembly and the government and prepare institutional response measures together."
Mokjaeryeon said, "This issue is not just a problem of a specific region, but is directly related to the urban planning and housing rights of the entire metropolitan area," and "we will stand united to the end against excessive regulations."

ming@fnnews.com Jeon Min-kyung Reporter