Land zoning and local discretion in the Korean planning system

Zonal planning systems are not noted for their promotion of land-use diversification or variety; rather, the rigidity with which they regulate changes in land-use has been a focus of concern in many countries. Zones frequently cut across areas of diverse social, cultural and economic need; they cause sharp divisions in both physical structure and social equity. In some countries, the creation of “buffer” or “mixed use” zones has been viewed as one possible solution; these can blunt the edges of otherwise sharp spatial divisions and promote diversity. Elsewhere, there have been calls for greater local discretion in the planning process and a shift in power away from the strategic level towards the local state. This paper explores the possibility of introducing such a system in Korea. It considers some of the problems that have stemmed from rigid zoning using the example of recent moves to amend “restricted development zone” boundaries. It then offers two paths for change: the extension of existing powers to give local authorities greater discretion in planning decisions, or the introduction of discretionary planning zones as a standard and widely available regulatory tool.