Cheong Wa Dae set to be restored as presidential office, ending 3 years in Yongsan


 

South Korea’s “Yongsan era” is ending as President Lee Jae Myung relocates the presidential office back to the historic Cheong Wa Dae, fulfilling a major campaign promise. The move began earlier this month and is expected to finish by Christmas, following completed environmental and technological upgrades. President Lee approved $17.6 million for the relocation shortly after taking office.

The administration criticized the Yongsan office as “politically toxic” due to its association with the former president’s martial law declaration. Analysts say the return to Cheong Wa Dae marks the end of turmoil related to the crisis under former President Yoon Suk Yeol, and the public is unlikely to view the move as wasteful due to dissatisfaction with Yoon’s leadership.

However, some experts worry the return may revive concerns about an “imperial presidency,” as Cheong Wa Dae’s layout isolates key decision-making areas. Previously open to the public as a cultural site, the complex welcomed over 8.52 million visitors before closing in July to prepare for the government’s return.

Source: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20251208/cheong-wa-dae-set-to-be-restored-as-presidential-office-ending-3-years-in-yongsan

Comprehension

What major campaign promise is President Lee Jae Myung fulfilling with the relocation?
How much money was allocated for moving the presidential office back to Cheong Wa Dae?
Why did the administration criticize the Yongsan presidential office?
What do analysts say the return to Cheong Wa Dae symbolizes?
How many visitors did Cheong Wa Dae receive while it was open to the public?

Discussion

Do you think moving a presidential office can influence public perception of a leader? Why or why not?
Should historical or symbolic locations be used for government offices?
What challenges might arise from placing decision-makers in isolated spaces?
How important is public approval when governments make costly decisions like relocations?
If you were a government advisor, would you support the move back to Cheong Wa Dae? Why or why not?

Vocabulary

Relocation – The act of moving to a new place.
Politically toxic – Damaging or harmful in a political context.
Martial law – A system where military authority replaces normal government control.
Turmoil – A state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.
Imperial presidency – A term describing a president with excessive or centralized power.