SEOUL, November 27 (AJP) - Lazare Eloundou Assomo, head of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, reiterated the need for a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) amid controversy over a redevelopment project near Jongmyo Shrine.
During a meeting in Paris, France on Wednesday with Huh Min, head of the Korea Heritage Service (KHS), Assomo expressed strong regret over the project.
The controversy began after the Seoul Metropolitan Government abruptly decided late last month to raise the height limit for the area, which is slated for redevelopment into an urban complex.
The KHS worries that raising the height limit from 71.9 meters to 145 meters could diminish the historical and cultural value of the UNESCO World Heritage site, designated in 1995 for its unique architectural landscape and historical significance as a royal ancestral ritual space.
Assomo had previously sent a letter on Nov. 15, urging the South Korean government to conduct a survey to assess potential impacts on the values of the World Heritage site before proceeding with the project.
Huh explained the country's efforts and commitment to preserving the ancient shrine’s values in line with UNESCO's recommendations.
Huh also met with Khaled El-Enany, the new UNESCO Secretary-General the previous day, to discuss preparations for next year's World Heritage Committee meeting in Busan, outlining the plans and seeking UNESCO's support.
Promising his attendance at the meeting, El-Enany praised South Korea's efforts to preserve its national heritage and cultural assets and pledged UNESCO's full support.
* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.
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