South Korea eases military protection zones for residents

South Korea’s Ministry of National Defence announced a wide‑scale relaxation of military protection zones, affecting 29.16 million m² across several regions. The changes include the complete removal of restrictions in Goseong‑gun, Sokcho‑si, Pyeongtaek‑si, Goyang‑si and Yongsan‑gu (862.8 ha), and the downgrade of a control‑protection zone to a limited‑protection zone in Siheung‑si’s Gun‑dong area (17 ha).

The adjustment removes long‑standing building limits, allowing new construction, housing projects and tech‑valley developments to proceed. Authorities say the areas have minimal impact on military operations, and the changes aim to resolve resident grievances over property rights and to stimulate regional development. The reforms take effect on 22 May after official gazette publication. The defence ministry pledged to continue rationalising protection zones where they do not compromise national security.