[INTERVIEW] Central Seoul’s Jung District aims to transform into global iconic destination – Beragampengetahuan

Kim Kil-sung, head of the Jung District Office in Seoul, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at his office, Feb. 29. Courtesy of Jung District Office

Myeong-dong set to install electronic displays, address street vendors’ overcharging issue

By Jung Da-hyun

Central Seoul is set to elevate its symbolic stature by offering diverse experiences and enhancing orderliness services in the iconic district of Myeong-dong.

In a recent interview with The Korea Times, Kim Kil-sung, head of the Jung District Office in Seoul, highlighted plans to transform Myeong-dong into a dynamic space by installing electronic displays starting this year.

“Myeong-dong is often presented as an iconic destination for tourists in Korea, and we aim to accentuate its symbolism and dynamism through the strategic use of electronic displays,” Kim said.

This year, Myeong-dong has been designated as a location where outdoor electronic displays can be freely installed without restrictions.

The goal is to create a vibrant streetscape reminiscent of New York’s Times Square with an increased number of electronic boards, according to the district office.

The installation of advertising boards will take place over the next 10 years, aiming to conclude in 2033. This initiative will commence with putting large electronic displays on prominent buildings near Myeong-dong, such as Shinsegae Department Store’s main store, Hana Bank headquarters and Kyowon Building, by the end of this year.

A conceptual image of electronic displays in Myeong-dong / Courtesy of Jung District Office

These electronic boards will not only showcase ads but also convey a variety of content, including promoting city policies, the national image and the local government and displaying various media art to enrich the experience for tourists visiting the area.

Furthermore, the district aims to broadcast significant events on electronic displays, such as the New Year’s Eve bell-tolling ceremony at Bosingak Belfry, as well as its own New Year’s Eve countdown.

“Just like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, which resonate globally for those traveling to New York, our aim is to establish Myeong-dong as an essential and symbolic destination for anyone visiting Korea,” Kim said.

A food cart is set up in an alley of Myeong-dong in Jung District, Seoul. Korea Times file

In addition to the focus on electronic displays, the district is actively working on regulations to make the area more orderly, addressing issues like unregulated street vendors.

Recently, it has been pointed out that street foods are being sold at exorbitant prices to tourists in Myeong-dong.

“We lacked a legal basis for controlling street food sales in Myeong-dong. However, the district office is now working toward creating a system to regulate these street vendors,” Kim said.

As part of its regulatory plan, card readers will be installed at approximately 360 street shops by the end of March, not only enhancing tourist convenience but also ensuring transparent tax reporting through business registration.

The implementation of card readers mandates all vendors to officially register as businesses, which allows the district to systematically manage street vendors under a framework.

“The initial intent of allowing street vendors not registered as businesses was to assist those in need. However, maintaining order seems essential,” Kim said.

The regulatory plan aims to empower street vendors to maintain order, with penalties for those who violate their responsibilities. The focus is on preventing exorbitant food prices and avoiding the occupation of street spaces that disrupt pedestrian flow.

People watch a music performance at Jeongdong Culture Night. Courtesy of Jung District Office

Jung District is also offering diverse tourism content. The upcoming Jeongdong Culture Night, which is scheduled from May 24 to 25, will showcase historical and cultural facilities open at night, accompanied by various performances, exhibitions, special lectures and cultural events.

The event will feature the nighttime opening of historical and cultural landmarks in Jeong-dong, including Deoksu Palace, the British Embassy in Korea, the Canadian Embassy in Korea, the Seoul Museum of Art and Chungdong First Methodist Church.

Moreover, walking tours combining historical and cultural resources in a storytelling format are being offered. The district provides cultural tourism commentary services in multiple languages for foreign visitors. Tourists can apply for this service at any time by contacting the district office.

“By delving into the 630-year history of the district through on-site introductions and guided tours with informative explanations, visitors are likely to find greater satisfaction. I hope individuals will actively engage in this experience,” Kim said.