Minju Plaza after Renovation (Provided by Ayana Isabekova)

Provided by Ayana Isabekova (aiana2106@korea.ac.kr)

Korea University (KU) recently completed the renovation of People’s Square, one of the  most symbolic student spaces. The construction took two weeks, aimed at improving safety and accessibility. The project included leveling uneven pavement caused by expanding tree roots, removing hazardous trees and dismantling aging benches and shade structures. Four wisteria trees, long associated with the plaza’s identity, were transplanted to a temporary nursery instead of being removed entirely.

However, the construction did not receive great reactions. On Everytime, posts complaining about the removal of trees gained traction. For many people, People’s Square represents more than just a physical space. Sieun Park (‘23, Spanish Language and Literature) explained that People’s Square gradually became “the true heart of KU” after years of campus life. The memories of gathering with friends, watching busking performances, and spending quiet afternoons there between classes, were what people valued. Students and faculty around Woo Dang Hall also described the plaza as a place closely tied to student culture, campus traditions and everyday interaction. While some expressed sadness over the loss of trees and shade, others agreed that the renovation highlights the importance of maintaining People’s Square as a safe and meaningful space at the center of student life.
출처 : 고려대학교 고파스 2026-06-16 12:16:00: