Startup Support Project Utilizing Vacant Stores in Traditional Markets
Gwangjin District Opens 'Kkangdabang' Youth Barista Cafe
Supporting Young Entrepreneurs to Revitalize Traditional Markets
A mother of two has achieved her dream by becoming a barista. Gwangjin District in Seoul helped open a youth barista cafe called 'Kkangdabang' by utilizing a vacant store in Junggok Jeil Market. Kkangdabang, which opened on June 10, operates in a small space of about 5 pyeong (approximately 16.5 square meters) and sells coffee and beverages such as Americano.
Kim Kyungho, Mayor of Gwangjin District, greeting market vendors. Photo by Gwangjin District Office.
This project was carried out as part of Gwangjin District's "Startup Support Project Utilizing Vacant Stores in Traditional Markets." The district will cover the entire store deposit and 50% of the rent until October next year. Through this, Gwangjin District aims to help young and middle-aged entrepreneurs enter traditional markets more easily, while also expecting to revitalize the markets and create jobs.
There are eight traditional markets in Gwangjin District, and as of February, there were 659 registered stores. Among them, youth-run stores number only 39, accounting for less than 6% of the total. The district plans to invigorate traditional markets by attracting more young people and to foster sustainable growth.
Kang Heewon, the owner of Kkangdabang, said, "As a lifelong resident of Gwangjin District and a mother of two, I am grateful for this precious opportunity. I will do my best to successfully pursue my dream of being a barista, which I had set aside while raising my children."
Kim Kyungho, Mayor of Gwangjin District, stated, "We will continue to communicate with merchants and actively discover and support projects that revitalize traditional markets."
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