Junggu District in Seoul (District Mayor Kim Gilseong) announced on July 28 that it has received the Grand Prize in the 'Economic and Regional Industry Support' category at the '2025 National Manifesto Best Practices Competition' for its case study on the '(Corporation) Seoul Junggu Traditional Market Commercial District Development Center' (Commercial District Development Center), the nation's first public-private partnership organization specializing in commercial district management.
This competition, hosted by the Korea Manifesto Implementation Headquarters, was held under the theme of 'Resilient Cities, Human-Centered Cities' across seven categories. A total of 159 local governments nationwide submitted 401 cases, resulting in fierce competition. Junggu District was highly evaluated for the achievements of the Commercial District Development Center and its sustainable commercial district management model.
Junggu District is home to 49 markets, which accounts for 15% of all traditional markets in Seoul. Recognizing that revitalizing the local economy requires the revival of traditional markets, the district has continuously strived to strengthen commercial district competitiveness through innovative policy initiatives.
In particular, the district determined that uniform administrative support alone was insufficient to enhance the competitiveness of traditional markets amid the rapidly changing distribution environment. Therefore, it embarked on establishing a 'sustainable commercial district management system.' As a result, in April of last year, the 'Commercial District Development Center,' which involves private experts, merchants, and residents, was officially launched.
The Commercial District Development Center communicates directly with merchants in the field and leverages its expertise to drive changes in traditional markets and neighborhood commercial districts. Its merchant-tailored support includes merchant competency enhancement training, online sales channel development and marketing support, festival and event planning and execution support, and a preliminary review system for public contest projects.
Additionally, it is leading the co-growth of large, medium, and small-scale distribution by establishing a foundation for coexistence with large discount stores and creating a regional cooperation fund. Since being designated as a public interest corporation in March, it has further expanded its scope of activities.
Having established a pioneering commercial district management paradigm previously unseen, the Commercial District Development Center has attracted nationwide attention, with many local governments requesting benchmarking opportunities.
Kim Gilseong, Mayor of Junggu District, stated, "This award is the result of Junggu District's efforts, made in collaboration with local residents and experts, to revitalize the traditional market commercial district." He added, "We will continue to communicate closely with merchants and spare no effort in providing tangible support to create vibrant traditional markets where people want to stay."
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