BOEUN — The development of the Boeun 3rd Industrial Complex in the area of Sajik-ri and Goseung-ri, Tanbu-myeon, is facing a significant delay, with the start of construction now projected for October next year. The Boeun County government announced on October 5, 2025, that the planned groundbreaking this year became impossible after undergoing adjustments during consultations with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) regarding the conversion of agricultural land within the site.

The original scale of the industrial complex, initially planned at 849,000 square meters, has been reduced to 756,000 square meters. A county official explained that the delay stems from the negotiation process with MAFRA for the declassification of the Agricultural Promotion Zone (309,000 square meters). Approximately 100,000 square meters considered to have high conservation value as farmland were excluded from the plan. The necessary consultations and subsequent revisions of the plan have stretched the project's timeline.

New Timeline and Scope 

The county now plans to complete the administrative procedures, including a review by the North Chungcheong Provincial Industrial Complex Planning Deliberation Committee this year, and finalize all steps in the first half of next year. The target for the commencement of civil engineering work is now set for October 2026. The completion of the industrial complex is anticipated in 2028. The total investment for this project is budgeted at 136.2 billion Korean won (approximately $100 million USD), which includes 13 billion won ($9.6 million USD) from the North Chungcheong Province's regional balanced development fund.

The project has previously encountered difficulties, including friction with local residents. Prior to the complex's development, the county had received investment Letters of Intent (LOIs) from six companies, including one from the chemical industry. Concerns over the inclusion of chemical-sector businesses and the potential impact on public safety and the environment have sparked opposition and ongoing conflicts with residents. The Boeun County government has attempted to address these concerns by indicating they would impose restrictions on the types of industries and hazardous materials allowed, and by forming consultative bodies to engage with the community.

The successful completion of the Boeun 3rd Industrial Complex is a key element of the county's strategy to attract investment and create jobs, especially after the area was designated as a "Kihoe Baljeon Teukgu" (Opportunity Development Zone), which offers preferential conditions for corporate relocation and growth. The persistent administrative and community hurdles, however, continue to challenge the project's progression.

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