Gwangjang Market Merchants Association Presents Appreciation Plaque to Saemaeul Geumgo Chairman Jang Jaegon

Gwangjang Market in Jongno-gu, Seoul, has drawn attention as a symbol of the revival of traditional markets after being awarded the Presidential Citation in the traditional market category at the 21st National Excellent Market Expo, which opened on October 17.

To commemorate the Presidential Citation, a celebratory event was held on October 23, attended by Gwangjang Market merchants and local figures, who shared in the achievements that have brought new hope to traditional markets despite years of stagnation.

In recent years, Gwangjang Market has regained its vitality, with previously shuttered stores reopening. Various new businesses and youth startups are emerging throughout the market, which is seen as rekindling a "light of recovery" in the once-depressed traditional market sector.

It is explained that at the heart of these changes are the merchants' own efforts, as well as support from Jongno Gwangjang Saemaeul Geumgo. Merchants unanimously agreed that "the understanding and cooperation of the local financial institution, which has supported the market community, made today's achievements possible."

Choo Kwiseong, President of the Seoul Merchants Association, emphasized, "When the self-employed faced prolonged stagnation and the threat of closure, the presence of a financial institution that truly understood and stood by the merchants was a great source of strength. The role of finance now goes beyond simple funding to form the very foundation of the community."

In particular, Jang Jaegon, Chairman of Jongno Gwangjang Saemaeul Geumgo, has built trust by standing alongside market merchants for 40 years since joining in 1987. During the event, merchants presented Chairman Jang with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of his long-standing dedication.

Chairman Jang stated, "Traditional markets remain the backbone of our economy and the foundation of ordinary people's lives. Merchants and financial institutions must work together to create new financial support models." He went on to stress, "It is absolutely necessary to establish an independent financial system for small business owners-a 'Small Business Owners' Bank.'"

President Choo also added, "To restore the competitiveness of traditional markets, merchant-centered financial support is essential, and the role of Saemaeul Geumgo will be the starting point for this."