SEOUL, April 13 (UPI) -- South Korean officials said Tuesday they are considering another potential site in Seoul for the new U.S. Embassy.
The main U.S. base in South Korea, in an area called the Yongsan Garrison in Seoul, is scheduled to move out of that city by 2007, the Korea Times said. It said the new potential site for the Embassy is in the Yongsan area.
A previously designated possible site, near Toksu Palace in Seoul, has become controversial. Some South Koreans have protested, saying construction of an embassy in that area might endanger cultural relics that might be buried on the palace grounds. Toksu was used by the royal family in the late 19th century during the reign of the Chosun Kingdom.
Another possible site was in Seoul's Songhyon-dong district, but that venue also presents some obstacles, the Korea Times said. The area is considered a historical and cultural section and buildings exceeding five stories are forbidden.
The location of the new embassy is to be decided by September, a Foreign Affairs Ministry official told the Korea Times.
