The Korea Times
By Lee Hyo-sik
The government rejected only one of every 100 construction and other development projects through an environment review system last year, data showed Sunday, drawing criticism that it puts higher priorities on construction at the expense of the environment.
Under the review system, the government examines whether or not development schemes are appropriate from the viewpoint of environment protection. Those seeking to develop agricultural and wilderness areas larger than 5,000 square meters are subject to the review.
The government has initiated most of the proposed development schemes such as the four-river refurbishment project, and has even allowed more houses and plants to be built on greenbelts across the country.