Gangnam District to Host “Small Business Companion Market” from August to November

One-Stop Support for Everything from Expanding Sales Channels to Strengthening Capabilities

Gangnam District in Seoul (District Mayor Cho Sungmyung) will hold the “Small Business Companion Market” a total of seven times from this month until November, to support small business owners in expanding their sales channels and strengthening their capabilities.

The scene of the Small Business Companion Market held last year. Provided by Gangnam-gu.

This Companion Market has been organized not only to provide opportunities for product promotion and sales, but also to help small business owners achieve sustainable growth through practical training and one-on-one customized consulting.

This year, the Companion Market will begin with the COEX “2025 Handarty Korea” fair (August 7-10), and will be held sequentially in major commercial areas of Gangnam District, including Apgujeong Rodeo (September 12-13, September 19-20), Gangnam Square at Gangnam Station (October 10-11, October 24-25), Yeongdong Traditional Market (October 18), and Garosu-gil (November 14-16). At each event, about 30 small business companies will participate, showcasing a variety of items such as stylish handicrafts, fashion accessories, and household goods. Detailed schedules can be found on the district office’s website.

In particular, the first market, which will be held at COEX Hall C from August 7 to 10, will feature 31 participating companies, officially launching the event. Through joint promotion and sales booths in the large exhibition hall, companies can promote their products and directly communicate with visitors to gauge real-time market responses.

The strength of the Companion Market lies in its “practical support.” Participating companies can take part in one-on-one customized business consulting and expert lectures during the event. The consulting will focus on practical topics essential for small business owners, such as startup strategies, brand marketing, patents and intellectual property rights, and tax and accounting.

Small business owners who wish to participate in the Companion Market can fill out an application form on the district office’s website and submit it along with the required documents. For more information, contact the Gangnam District Office Local Economy Division at 02-3423-5499.

Cho Sungmyung, Mayor of Gangnam District, stated, “This Companion Market goes beyond a simple flea market by enhancing the brand competitiveness of small businesses and expanding opportunities for direct engagement with consumers,” adding, “We will continue to establish a market model unique to Gangnam District to invigorate the local economy and focus on strengthening the self-sufficiency of small business owners.”