The Seoul Metropolitan Government has withdrawn its controversial plan to install a 100-meter-tall flagpole and an eternal flame at Gwanghwamun Square, following a backlash over the meaning that such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

The crux of the