Seoul Introduces Incentives Such as Rezoning Upgrades to Expand University Dormitory Supply

Introduction of the "Campus Residential Innovation Zone"
Rezoning Upgrades, Floor Area Ratio Relaxation, and Eased Height Restrictions at Campus Boundaries

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on April 30 that it will introduce the "Campus Residential Innovation Zone," which includes incentives such as rezoning upgrades, to expand the supply of university dormitories.

Through the implementation of this system, the city plans to improve the conditions for building university dormitories, support housing stability for young people, and strengthen the educational and research foundations of universities.

First, the city will significantly strengthen urban planning incentives for the supply of university dormitories. Specifically, if a dormitory is constructed within a university campus, the Campus Residential Innovation Zone will allow for rezoning upgrades.

Once designated as a Campus Residential Innovation Zone, it will be possible to upgrade the zoning category, exempt the area from the 400% floor area ratio limit, and relax or eliminate height restrictions, enabling the supply of more dormitories.

In addition, when a university builds a dormitory on land it owns outside the campus, the area will be designated as an urban planning facility. If over 50% of the total floor area is planned as dormitory space, a one-step rezoning upgrade will be pursued. However, the upgraded zoning will be strictly limited to the purpose of dormitory supply. If the dormitory use is later discontinued, the zoning will revert to its original status.

The city is preparing to promptly implement these changes by pushing for revisions to the "Standards for Establishment and Operation of University Sub-facility Development Plans" in June.

Earlier, on April 14, the city held a meeting with university officials and the Korea Foundation for the Promotion of Private Schools to gather opinions on expanding the supply of university dormitories. Representatives from 10 universities attended, raising concerns about challenges in dormitory construction and the need for institutional improvements.

An Daehee, Director-General of the Urban Space Headquarters, stated, "University dormitories are not merely student welfare facilities but a key foundation for youth housing stability and university competitiveness." He added, "We will continue to cooperate with universities to improve regulations and create residential environments where students can live and study with peace of mind."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.