Guryong Village
Overview
Guryong Village (구룡마을) is an unauthorized shantytown located in the Gaepo-dong area of Gangnam-gu, Seoul. It was formed when people displaced during the urban renewal of the 1980s gathered there, and it is known as a representative area of housing poverty that exists behind Gangnam, a district surrounded by affluent residential neighborhoods. For decades, redevelopment discussions and conflicts over residents' right to survival have continued, and safety problems such as fires have repeatedly occurred.
Main Content
Background
Guryong Village was formed as residents of shantytowns demolished during preparations for the 1988 Seoul Olympics and urban redevelopment moved to the foot of Guryongsan in Gaepo-dong, Gangnam-gu. The village began to take shape in earnest around 1987, and for more than 30 years afterward it remained densely packed with unauthorized buildings.
Current Status and Living Environment
It is estimated that about 1,800 households and around 2,500 residents live in the village. Most homes are temporary structures built of vinyl greenhouses and planks, and because fire access roads are not properly established, the area is vulnerable to fire. Heating and electricity supply in winter are also poor, and controversy over infringement of basic housing rights is constantly raised.
Redevelopment Discussions and Conflicts
In 2014, the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Gangnam-gu announced a public housing development plan including Guryong Village. Since then, conflicts between resident groups and local governments have continued over relocation measures and compensation for residents. Some residents demand on-site resettlement, while others have prioritized securing temporary housing and livelihood measures.
Major Incidents
In January 2023, a large fire broke out in Guryong Village, destroying hundreds of households and forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate. The fire again highlighted the structural safety problems of the shantytown and the seriousness of delays in redevelopment.
Recent Developments
Since 2024, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has designated the Guryong Village area as a public housing district and is pushing for phased relocation and demolition. As of 2025, relocation of residents is underway in some areas, and the provision of temporary housing facilities and compensation negotiations have emerged as key issues. In addition, resident communities and civil society organizations continue to speak out demanding guaranteed housing rights and transparent compensation procedures. The timing and method of completing redevelopment are still under discussion.
Related Topics
- [[강남구]]
- [[재개발]]
- [[주거권]]
- [[판자촌]]
- [[서울시]]