Seoul Jung-gu Council Members Communicate with Traditional Market Merchants Ahead of Chuseok

Son Juha, So Jae-kwon, Heo Sang-wook, Yang Eun-mi Lawmakers Listen to Merchants' Difficulties and Seek Support Measures

Seoul Jung-gu Council members Son Juha, So Jae-kwon, Heo Sangwook, and Yang Eunmi visited major traditional markets on the 25th ahead of Chuseok.

Jung-gu, Seoul, has about 40 traditional markets and around 10 alleyway commercial districts. The markets and commercial districts throughout Jung-gu serve as a pillar supporting the local economy and act as indicators to gauge the flow and atmosphere of the regional economy. The council members initiated this visit to listen to the difficulties faced by merchants, examine local livelihood issues, and seek ways to revitalize the local commercial districts.

The members visited Jungbu Market, Jungang Market, and Yaksu Market, greeting each store preparing for the busy Chuseok holiday and attentively listening to the merchants' current situations. They carefully noted the opinions and suggestions presented by the merchants on-site and spent time discussing various measures to promote the revitalization of traditional markets and commercial districts together with the merchants.

Additionally, the council members personally purchased Chuseok ritual items using traditional market gift certificates and actively promoted the markets by encouraging visitors to frequently use our local markets through a shopping campaign.

The members stated, “We took time to observe the trends in the local economy and public sentiment at traditional markets and alleyway commercial districts, which can be considered barometers of the regional economy, and gathered merchants' opinions on ways to revitalize the commercial districts on-site.” They added, “We will continue to communicate with merchants beyond one-time visits and strive to prepare practical support measures to promote the revival of traditional markets.”