Songpa Mayor Seo Gangseok: "We Will Expand Attention and Support for Vulnerable Neighbors"

New Year's Reception Held at Lotte Concert Hall on January 7
"Social Welfare Spending Increased by 57 Billion Won This Year"
"Jamsil MICE District and Tancheon-dong-ro Underground Development to Be Pursued"

On January 7, Songpa-gu in Seoul (headed by Mayor Seo Gangseok) held a New Year's reception at Lotte Concert Hall, attended by over 1,700 residents, and announced its major projects for 2026.

Mayor Seo Gangseok stated, "Of the 1.3 trillion won budget for 2026, social welfare spending has been increased by 57 billion won compared to last year," adding, "We will expand our attention and support for vulnerable neighbors by increasing child allowances, supporting senior citizens' social activities, and providing assistance for people with disabilities."

Scene from the 'Songpa-gu 2026 New Year's Reception' held at Lotte Concert Hall on the 7th. Provided by Songpa-gu.

This year, the district will begin full-scale development of the Jamsil Sports Complex MICE district. This project, which will invest 3 trillion won by 2032, aims to establish a new landmark for Songpa-gu. The underground construction of Tancheon-dong-ro is also a key focus for this year. Through these projects, the district plans to increase the utilization of above-ground spaces and improve the transportation environment.

Other key initiatives for the year include attracting large-scale private investment to the Bokjeong Station site, creating a walkable garden along Songpa-daero, the prompt demolition of the Sampyo Industrial Pungnap Plant and creation of community spaces for residents, as well as establishing a robust safety system for disaster and emergency preparedness.

Mayor Seo remarked, "Over the past three and a half years, Songpa has shone brighter and its brand value has increased through 'servant administration' that puts residents first," adding, "Songpa has transformed from being one of the so-called 'Gangnam 3 districts' in name only to a truly desirable place where anyone would want to live or move to." He further emphasized, "We will shift the paradigm from regulation to supportive administration, expedite reconstruction and redevelopment, expand urban gardens with streets in bloom all year round and attractive waterfront parks, and make Songpa a premier residential city."

Mayor Seo Gangseok concluded, "In 2026, I will do my utmost to ensure that Songpa becomes an even more radiant city in Korea, continuing to serve residents as the true owners of the district and making further progress in the coming year."