Watching K-pop Concerts at Cheong Wa Dae... How Will It Change?

The view of Cheongwadae from Namsan, Seoul

[Asia Economy Reporter Bu Aeri] According to the Presidential Transition Committee on the 2nd, plans are being considered to transform the existing Cheongwadae (Blue House) into a space for various cultural events after the launch of the next government.

The Doors of Cheongwadae Open

Spokesperson for President-elect Kim Eun-hye stated on the 31st of last month, "For those who want to visit Cheongwadae, the route will start from Gyeongbokgung Palace, continue along the Bukaksan Mountain hiking trail, and include the Cheongwadae main building, Sangchunjae, and Nokjiwon, places where modern history is embedded, returning these to the people."

Currently, the area around Gwanghwamun is blocked off by Cheongwadae. After opening Cheongwadae, paths for 'walking tours' are expected to be accessible. Nearby facilities such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts will create synergistic effects. Spokesperson Kim added, "It will be reborn as a place where people can view the history of the Republic of Korea at a glance and instill national pride."

There are also discussions about holding cultural events at Cheongwadae, such as joint performances of K-pop and traditional music.

The Transition Committee plans to develop the outdoor spaces of Cheongwadae into areas for performances, exhibitions, and sports. It is reported that walking trail courses around the perimeter and within the grounds will be developed so that Cheongwadae can become a popular walking path for the public.

The committee is considering ways to open Cheongwadae to the public while fully preserving its key facilities inside and outside. Plans are also being discussed to create a 'Real Modern History' (tentative name) experience center and a historical and cultural space themed around 'Hangul' both inside and outside Cheongwadae.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

At Least 200 Billion KRW... Significant Economic Impact

The Transition Committee believes that opening Cheongwadae will generate considerable economic added value. Spokesperson Kim explained, "There are reports from various organizations estimating that the economic benefits returned to the public from opening Cheongwadae range from 200 billion to 1 trillion KRW."

This policy aligns with the plan reported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to the Social Welfare and Culture Subcommittee on the 28th of last month regarding the utilization of Cheongwadae grounds. Previously, the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, an affiliate of the Ministry, reported that opening Cheongwadae to the public would generate at least 200 billion KRW in annual economic effects.

Opening Cheongwadae is expected to revitalize nearby commercial districts, producing an annual production inducement effect of 149 billion KRW and a value-added inducement effect estimated at 56.5 billion KRW per year. Furthermore, the Transition Committee believes that opening Cheongwadae will contribute to ushering in an era of 30 million foreign tourists.