China Plans New Embassy in Seoul

photo of myeongdong by jungmoon.

IN THE HEART OF the bustling Myeongdong shopping district in downtown Seoul, China is planning construction for a towering embassy that will occupy almost 10,000 square meters, making it the largest in South Korea. Whether this is a sign of the two countries becoming closer — or just another display of the Middle Kingdom’s affection for rampant development — is unclear.

The new embassy will have two sections, says the JoongAng Daily; one 24-story block of apartments for employees and another 10-story building for offices. The compound will also house a pool, a gym and even a hair salon. It will be built on plot of land that was home to the old Chinese embassy before the offices moved to the Jongno neighborhood, and is slated to be completed by 2012.

The consular offices, however, do not appear to be moving. Unless notice is given otherwise you will still need to apply for visas at:

ENG: 50-7, No. 2 Street, Namsan-dong, Chung-gu, Seoul (source)
KR: 서울특별시 중구 남산동 2가 50-7번지 (출처)

Related News: Seoul plans new Chinatown neighborhood.