New 135-Meter Arcade Completed at Namdaemun Market

Jung-gu Creates a Comfortable and Attractive Market Environment

Namdaemun Market, one of Seoul’s most iconic traditional markets, has a new roof. On the 17th, Jung-gu District (headed by Mayor Kim Gilseong) held a completion ceremony for the Namdaemun Market arcade, celebrating its completion with around 150 merchants and local residents.

Commemorative photo of the Namdaemun Market arcade completion ceremony. Provided by Jung-gu.

The Namdaemun Market arcade was constructed along a 135-meter stretch of the main street, measuring 15 meters in height and 11 meters in width. This project was promoted as part of the modernization of traditional market facilities in 2022. The design, which modernizes the roofs of Sungnyemun and traditional Hanok houses, has created a comfortable and attractive market environment year-round.

While the initial project budget was approximately 3.1 billion won, Jung-gu District secured an additional 3.98 billion won in special adjustment grants through ongoing consultations with the Seoul Metropolitan Government. With a total budget of 7.1 billion won, the arcade stands out from other markets. The district plans to use this project, which combines traditional values with modern sensibilities, as an opportunity to develop Namdaemun Market into a global tourist destination visited by people from around the world.

The new arcade features a gate that emphasizes the shape of the roof, creating a sense of continuity and openness. It also includes interior sculptures symbolizing the sun and moon, landscape lighting along the eaves, and signboards inspired by traditional architectural plaques. The completion ceremony began with a pre-event performance in front of Namdaemun Square and was attended by Kim Gilseong, Mayor of Jung-gu, Seoul Mayor Oh Sehoon, merchants, and local residents.

Market merchants expressed their gratitude, saying, “It has finally become a market that people will want to visit all year round,” and “We are thankful for the carefully designed and comfortable space.”

Kim Gilseong, Mayor of Jung-gu, stated, “Namdaemun Market is Seoul’s leading traditional market and the center of Jung-gu’s economy. We will continue to implement various support measures and policies to revitalize the market and develop it into a traditional market that grows together with the local community.”