Expecting Synergy in Gwangsan Growth Linked to Songjeong Station Area
[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] It has been argued that the ‘Sochon Art Factory,’ a key cultural space managed by Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City, must be linked with the Songjeong Station area for its development.
Park Haewon, a Gwangsan-gu council member (Democratic Party, Cheomdan 1·2-dong), asserted during the 276th regular administrative audit that the ‘Sochon Art Factory’ should relocate its space to get closer to the residents.
Currently located in the Sochon Industrial Complex, the ‘Sochon Art Factory’ has accumulated advanced cultural and artistic capabilities through various activities such as exhibitions, performances, events, and education. However, it faces limitations such as accessibility, surrounding infrastructure, and aging facilities.
Councilman Park explained, “A similar case is the ‘Palbok Art Factory’ located in the Palbok Industrial Complex in Jeonju, which has not been as revitalized as expected. Likewise, continuing to operate the Sochon Art Factory at its current location for the next 10 or 20 years will not effectively realize policy effectiveness.”
He added, “It has been verified in many domestic and international cities that synergy occurs when ‘cultural and artistic life’ and ‘consumer life’ are linked during urban planning and implementation. Therefore, when selecting a new location for the Sochon Art Factory, it must be connected with the ‘Songjeong Station Area Commercial Renaissance’ project.”
He also cited Seoul’s ‘Konkuk University Common Ground’ and ‘Platform Changdong 61’ as successful examples.
Furthermore, he stated, “In a situation where Gwangsan-gu lacks notable entertainment options, if an art factory is established in the Songjeong Station area, which mainly offers ‘one-hour food options,’ it will bring balance and vitality to the commercial district.”
He continued, “An art factory combined with the Songjeong Station area paints a wonderful blueprint just by imagining it. Please review the relocation of the ‘Sochon Art Factory’ from a long-term perspective through policy discussions, public hearings, and feasibility studies so that all residents can experience various daily entertainment options.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
