[5] The supreme court of Korea ruled that the chapel made the area "socially, economically, and culturally limited in access ― unable to serve public purposes for nearby residents," according to a subsequent report.

SaRang Community Church, once situated on a bustling thoroughfare in the Gangnam district, faced challenges due to the congregation's substantial size, placing strain on an already crowded area renowned for its entertainment establishments and bars.

As the church attracted worshippers from beyond Seoul, who relied on private vehicles as public transportation was not easily accessible, discontent grew among its members due to the inadequate parking facilities.

The crux of the controversy revolved around a specific fact: the church had acquired a permit from the Seocho District Office to occupy a public road both during and after the construction process.

On 13 January 2017, the administrative court declared the Seocho District Office's permit, which authorized SaRang Community Church to occupy a public road, as illegal and ordered its cancellation.