Over 70 Stores Join Public-Private Partnership
for Safety and Environmental Improvements
Jongno-gu in Seoul (District Mayor: Chung Moonhun) announced on October 14 that it will officially launch the operation of the “Coexistence Street,” which integrates Donhwamun-ro 11-gil and Ikseon-dong Galmaegi Alley, starting this month.
The district stated that it will prioritize the safety of street users above all else and will establish an operating system in which the district office, merchant associations, and street vendors share responsibilities and roles. This is aimed at creating a sustainable street environment focused on safety and environmental management.
On October 1, the district signed an integrated operation agreement with the Jongno Rodeo Street Merchants Association, the Ikseon-dong Galmaegi Alley Merchants Association, and the Nakwon Branch Coexistence Committee, clearly defining roles in areas such as safety management, environmental maintenance, and order enforcement. The initiative is drawing attention as it establishes a public-private governance structure involving more than 70 stores.
Although Donhwamun-ro 11-gil is a popular tourist destination, there has been a significant need for environmental improvement due to issues such as road obstructions, increased illegal outdoor business activities, and limited pedestrian space. In response, the district has set “strengthening on-site inspections,” “enhancing disaster response capabilities,” and “street maintenance based on operational regulations” as core strategies. It will operate the disaster safety control room and the integrated safety center with closed-circuit television (CCTV) 24 hours a day. In cooperation with Jongno Fire Station, fire response training will also be provided for merchants.
Additionally, the district will increase the number of members in the “Coexistence Street Safety Management Team” to reinforce patrols in vulnerable areas, manage pedestrian flow, and strengthen emergency response capabilities, while also reorganizing disorderly store layouts and removing illegal facilities. To curb street smoking, no-smoking guidance will be provided at all times through electronic boards and banners. The number of public trash bins will be increased from two to five to reduce illegal dumping.
The merchant associations and street vendors will contribute voluntarily by cleaning public restrooms, opening up store restrooms to the public, providing trash bins for smokers, mandating fire and injury insurance, and installing K-class fire extinguishers, thereby maintaining a pleasant street environment.
Chung Moonhun, Mayor of Jongno-gu, stated, “With the district’s institutional support and the voluntary participation of merchants and street vendors, Donhwamun-ro 11-gil and Ikseon-dong Galmaegi Alley are now beginning as a new Coexistence Street. We will continue to do our best to create a street where both residents and tourists can feel safe and comfortable at all times.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
