From Unpermitted Shantytown to Apartment Complex, and Now to Reconstruction

This land has already transformed twice — from an unpermitted shantytown to a New Town apartment complex — and is now approaching a third transformation, as large-scale reconstruction.

Key takeaways

The Mokdong New Town apartments, built after the 1980s demolitions, are now more than 30 years old and showing their age. Fact As of July 2026, all 14 complexes are subject to reconstruction, in what is being pursued as one of Seoul's largest reconstruction projects, valued at roughly 30 trillion won overall. Fact Complex 8 has already received approval to form a reconstruction association and is now in the process of selecting a construction company. Fact

What to look for on site

The difference between complexes actively pursuing reconstruction and those still in earlier stages
Banners referencing reconstruction-association approval or construction-company selection
Complexes that still retain their original New Town form from more than 30 years ago

Editorial note

Avoid framing reconstruction as "a done deal." Make clear that different complexes are at different stages of the process.