Heo Seok, Suncheon Mayor, Encourages Traditional Market Merchants for Chuseok

Starting with the lower market, continuing communication and encouragement with traditional market merchants

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Lee Hyung-kwon] Heo Seok, mayor of Suncheon, visited local traditional markets during the Chuseok holiday peak season to communicate with merchants struggling due to COVID-19.

On the previous day, Mayor Heo visited Araetjang, which had regained vitality for the holiday peak market day, and offered warm consolation and encouragement to merchants who are working hard to make a living despite the difficulties caused by COVID-19. He also wished for a healthy and abundant Hangawi with citizens who came to the market to prepare holiday food items.

On this day, Mayor Heo visited various parts of the market, purchasing various ceremonial items such as fruits, fish, and vegetables using the Suncheon Love Gift Certificate. He listened to the merchants’ difficulties and encouraged citizens to use local gift certificates, asking for their participation in revitalizing the local economy, which has been depressed due to COVID-19.

Suncheon City, anticipating an increase in traditional market visitors during Chuseok compared to usual, conducted disinfection and quarantine in public restrooms, passageways, and market stalls within the traditional markets before the market days. They also thoroughly prepared for welcoming customers by distributing masks to store and street vendors to prevent cases of mask non-wearing.

Mayor Heo Seok of Suncheon said, “I sincerely thank the traditional market merchants who voluntarily participated in temporary closures during this difficult time of COVID-19 spread. I will listen carefully to the voices of merchants and strive to help the traditional markets, which have been depressed due to COVID-19, regain vitality like today.” He also stated that he will continue his communication efforts with the merchants.

Starting with Araetjang on this day, Mayor Heo plans to visit Yeokjeon Market on the 28th, Hwangjeon Goemok Market on the 29th, and Utjang on the 30th to express gratitude and consolation to traditional market merchants and communicate with citizens.