The modern zoning system of most countries is based on ‘Euclidean Zoning’, which spread throughout the world in the 20th century. Zoning was an attempt to solve urban problems prevailed in the industrialization era such as safety and public health. Euclidean zoning is characterised by the functional separation of land uses. In other words, land use other than the permitted use in each zone is prohibited in principle.

The Republic of Korea institutionally introduced the ‘Zoning system’ in 1934, and it continues to be used as a major means of managing land use in all cities. However, in the current zoning system based on exclusive zoning, it is difficult to flexibly correspond to future demand, which rapidly changes. This type of rigid zoning system has limitations in its ability to create a future-oriented urban space that can improve the competitiveness of Seoul and the quality of life of its citizens in response to ever-changing conditions.

Recently, countries(and cities) around the world are seeking the conversion of land use management means to overcome the limitations of Euclidean zoning and promote the formation of friendly neighbourhoods through complex land use and walkable design. One example is the transition to 'Contextual Zoning' and 'Form-based Code', which are currently occurring in the U.S.