Held for Three Days Until the 19th
A Variety of Attractions Including Exhibition Halls and Food Markets
Yoon Janguk, Gyeongnam Branch President of the National Merchants Federation, Receives Industrial Medal
The Ministry of SMEs and Startups held the 21st National Excellent Market Expo and presented government awards to individuals who have contributed to the revitalization of traditional markets.
On the 17th, the Ministry announced that it held the opening ceremony of the National Excellent Market Expo at the OSCO complex in Osong, Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province. The opening ceremony was attended by Minister Han Seongsook of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, Governor Kim Younghwan of North Chungcheong Province, Mayor Lee Beomseon of Cheongju, Park Seonghyo, President of the Korea Small Business Market Promotion Corporation, as well as merchants from across the country and about 500 citizens of Cheongju.
This year’s expo, held over three days until the 19th, features participation from 140 traditional markets and 200 shopping districts nationwide, with stores representing a variety of industries. In the exhibition and sales halls, a wide range of regional specialties such as agricultural, marine, and livestock products, crafts, and daily consumer goods are on display and for sale. The food market brings together famous eateries from renowned local markets, aiming to attract visitors. In the 21 special youth merchant booths, young merchants showcase their creative ideas and trendy products.
Additionally, spaces such as a children’s traditional market experience zone and a digital learning center for seniors have been set up, providing enjoyment for all generations. Private companies including Kakao, Lotte ON, Woowa Brothers, and Hyundai EZwel are also presenting a variety of programs and events focused on digital transformation.
A traditional market hotspot photo zone, where visitors can see at a glance the famous eateries and specialty products of traditional markets, is also being operated. For three days, there will be a rich lineup of cultural events, including performances by popular singers and idols, a kids’ concert for families with children, and busking performances.
Seungjoo Han, Jeonnam Branch President of the National Merchants Federation. Ministry of SMEs and Startups
During the opening ceremony, government awards were also presented to individuals who contributed to the revitalization of traditional market shopping districts. This year, the Order of Industrial Service Merit (Stone Tower) was awarded to Han Seungjoo, Jeonnam Branch President of the National Merchants Federation, while the Industrial Medal was awarded to Yoon Janguk, Gyeongnam Branch President of the National Merchants Federation.
Han Seungjoo, Jeonnam Branch President of the National Merchants Federation, was recognized for his 19 years of dedication to revitalizing local traditional markets, establishing cultural experience spaces for youth and families, and actively leading various innovations in traditional markets such as the smart traditional market development project and the opening of a merchant media center.
Yoon Janguk, Gyeongnam Branch President of the National Merchants Federation, was highly praised for his contributions to the development of traditional markets through activities such as expanding merchant convenience facilities, promoting multicultural exchanges, fostering culture and tourism-oriented markets, and collaborating with the local community.
At the opening ceremony, Minister Han Seongsook stated, "Traditional markets are now at a turning point, evolving from their 20-year journey alongside the public to becoming 'markets for everyone' that embrace future generations as well," adding, "The government will continue to actively support efforts to strengthen the self-sustainability of traditional markets."
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