Jeonju, North Jeolla Province, is taking steps to minimize citizen inconvenience and ensure the stable implementation of the 'Special Measures Law for Specific Buildings,' which will take effect on December 17. Preparations include amending ordinances and establishing an administrative support system.
On August 4, officials announced that the Special Measures Law will be temporarily in effect from December 17, 2026, to June 16, 2028. The law aims to protect property rights by providing a limited opportunity for usage approval (legalization) for specific buildings that are unpermitted or illegally constructed.
The law applies to residential buildings that were essentially completed before December 31, 2023, including multi-family homes with a floor area of 85 square meters or less per unit, single-family homes with a total floor area of 165 square meters or less, and multi-family homes with a total floor area of 660 square meters or less.
Notably, this law expands the scope compared to the special measures law enacted in 2014. For instance, the area limit for multi-family homes has increased from 330 square meters to 660 square meters, and for single-family homes, local governments can decide on applicability for those exceeding 165 square meters but not exceeding 330 square meters.
Additionally, buildings currently used as residences that were originally designated for neighborhood living facilities, as well as cases of 'room splitting' in multi-family homes, can receive usage approval if they meet fire safety and parking standards.
To obtain usage approval under this law, property owners must secure land ownership and access to a road at least 3 meters wide, and there must be no significant hindrance to structural safety, hygiene, fire safety, or sunlight access.
The city plans to proactively prepare for the law's implementation to ensure that citizens can benefit from the system. This includes reviewing and promoting ordinance amendments that provide practical assistance to residents.
Furthermore, the city will collaborate with the Jeonju Architectural Association to operate a support center for specific buildings and conduct training for relevant officials to ensure prompt handling of civil complaints as the law takes effect.
Additionally, the city will enhance its outreach efforts through its website, media, and various promotional channels to inform eligible citizens about the application process and ensure they can apply within the implementation period.
Mayor Jo Ji-hoon Listens to Opinions from National Merit Recipients and Veteran Families
Mayor Jo Ji-hoon held a meeting with leaders from the Jeonju Veterans Association Council on August 3 to gather key opinions from the field.
According to the city, this meeting was organized to strengthen the recognition of national merit recipients and veteran families and to promote the value of veterans' contributions through ongoing communication with veteran organizations.
During the meeting, participants shared updates on their organizations' activities and discussed challenges and various opinions regarding the recognition of national merit recipients and the smooth operation of veteran organizations.
The city plans to consider the suggestions made during the meeting in developing and implementing future veteran policies, taking into account their necessity and feasibility. "We will actively work to enhance the honor of national merit recipients and widely promote the value of veterans in our community," the city stated.
Mayor Jo emphasized, "Remembering the sacrifices and dedication for the nation and providing appropriate recognition is a fundamental duty of our community. We will carefully listen to the voices from the field to ensure that national merit recipients and veteran families feel pride, and we will responsibly consider Jeonju's role in ensuring that the value of veterans continues to resonate in the daily lives of citizens and future generations."
Meanwhile, to enhance the recognition of national merit recipients and other veterans this year, Jeonju has increased the veteran allowance by 20,000 won per month. The city is also pursuing the establishment of a veteran hospital to address health rights violations and medical gaps for veterans in the North Jeolla region.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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