“Not a Crackdown, but Legalization”: Hongcheon County Supports Land Use Around Rivers

【Financial News Hongcheon = Kim Ki-seop】Hongcheon County is going beyond cracking down on unauthorized activities around rivers and will help legalize land use where permits can be obtained.
According to Hongcheon County on the 16th, the county signed an agreement that day with the Hongcheon County General Surveying Association at the county office to address and legalize unauthorized activities around rivers and valleys. The agreement is intended to systematically address unauthorized cultivation and land alterations around rivers, unlicensed commercial facilities, and the unauthorized dumping of waste. At the same time, it will support residents in obtaining permits through lawful procedures for activities on private and state-owned land that can legally be authorized.
In particular, Hongcheon County is focusing on resolving the difficulties faced by residents who have been unable to obtain permits for extended periods or have used land without authorization because they lacked an understanding of whether their land had been incorporated into a river zone or of the relevant laws. To this end, the county will operate mobile river management teams in each township and district. The teams will listen directly to residents’ concerns, verify the location and current use of the land, and provide consultations on whether permits or legalization are possible and what administrative procedures are required.
Residents are also expected to face a lower financial burden. During the agreement period, Hongcheon County and the surveying association agreed to apply reduced contract rates for surveying services required for permits and legalization. The aim is to help residents lawfully resolve long-standing land-use problems around rivers at a lower cost than standard surveying fees.
Hongcheon County plans to move beyond maintenance efforts centered solely on enforcement and demolition. It will address unauthorized activities in accordance with established principles while actively supporting activities eligible for permits or legalization, thereby protecting both residents’ property rights and the public nature of rivers. The county will continue on-site inspections and guidance regarding unauthorized activities around rivers. If violations are confirmed, it will take necessary measures, including administrative action after prior notification.
Hongcheon County Governor Shin Young-jae said, “We will not turn our backs on residents who have struggled for years because they were unfamiliar with the law or permit procedures. Where legalization is possible, we will provide active guidance so they can use their land lawfully.” He added, “Rivers and valleys are public assets that all county residents must protect together, so we will respond to unauthorized activities in accordance with established principles.”

[email protected] Kim Ki-seop Reporter