청계천에서 난지도로

Abstract

During the 1970s, the urban underclass of Seoul underwent significant displacement. This displacement took place within the city and was mainly due to semi-forced evictions from unauthorized dwellings and large-scale urban redevelopment initiatives. The government policies and construction capital interests created a perception of the redevelopment primarily as forced demolitions and top-down development. However, these transformations were underpinned by significant institutional and technological changes. Aerial photography, for example, facilitated the institutionalisation of spatial and ownership information. Through this transformation driven by technology, demolishing unauthorized housing became a systematic and feasible enforcement measure. The urban poor were unable to afford the newly constructed rental apartments after the demolitions. The simultaneous demolition of deprived areas across Seoul worsened their displacement. Individuals searched for shelter in inadequate housing clusters which became legalised after 1971. For those who were unable to afford these dwellings, unauthorised areas like Nanjido presented themselves as the only option. The displacement of the urban underclass was essentially due to a significant wave of demolitions and development. The institutionalisation of spatial data through aerial photography played a crucial role in implementing the clearance of unauthorised housing. The urban poor had no other choice but to move to areas where spatial information is not available. This highlights how socially vulnerable people are excluded from certain areas based on their location. Moreover, it underscores the passive resistance of the urban poor towards aggressive and authoritarian development.