The Seoul Metropolitan Government has withdrawn its controversial plan to install a 100-meter-tall flagpole and an eternal flame at Gwanghwamun Square, following a backlash over the meaning that such national symbols carry.

Mayor Oh Se-hoon announced that the city will listen to citizens’ opinions and review the project from scratch while still pursuing the creation of a “national symbol space” at the iconic location in central Seoul. The $7.9 million initiative, which aimed to honor veterans and foster patriotism, was announced by Oh on June 25, the 74th anniversary of the start of the Korean War.