To the disappointment of many, and not to mention contrary to previous media reports, barbecuing at Hangang River parks will still be banned, according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

“According to the Urban Park Act, Hangang River parks are classified as river districts, not as urban parks,” the ministry said Friday through a statement. “Grilling and barbecuing by the river will thus continue to be forbidden, regardless of the revision of the park law.”

The ministry issued the announcement following local media reports on Thursday that the government would allow the exact opposite along the Han, and also at Namsan Sports Park. Both are popular hangouts, especially in the summer.

The confusion came after the government presented a set of measures to boost the service and leisure industry through deregulation and tax benefits. This included the revision of the Urban Park Law to add barbecuing sites and water supply systems to recreational facilities.

Under the current law, those who cook and camp in urban parks without permission are subject to a fine of up to 100,000 won ($87).

“Grill dinners eventually end with drinking parties, which could possibly cause disputes or even drowning accidents,” said an official of the Seoul Metropolitan Government, explaining why barbecuing near the river will not be allowed despite the law revision.

“There was a misunderstanding on the scope of application of the government measures,” the official added.

“The corresponding areas only include picnic sites and camping sites located within urban parks, and the detailed list will be specified in the enforcement regulations in order to prevent confusion.”

The city government is responsible for running and managing the river parks and Namsan area.

Meanwhile, the revision also met with opposition from critics who claim that the deregulation measures could lead to environmental pollution, noise and security problems.

The government said this was why alcoholic beverages are to remain banned.

By Bae Hyun-jung (tellme@heraldcorp.com)