Mayor Seo Gangseok of Songpa Launches On-Site Communication Tour of 27 Neighborhoods

Touring All Neighborhoods Until February 12
Pungnap-dong Chosen as the First Stop

"Thank you for visiting Pungnap-dong first. We know well that you have shared our struggles, which stem from the challenges we face due to cultural heritage protection."

On January 12, resident representatives of Pungnap-dong, Songpa District, warmly welcomed Mayor Seo Gangseok of Songpa District and greeted him. On this day, Mayor Seo began his annual district tour, starting with Pungnap 1-dong and 2-dong, and plans to visit all 27 neighborhoods over the course of a month until February 12.

Sung Gak-seok, Mayor of Songpa District, is visiting Pungnap-dong and discussing local issues with residents. Provided by Songpa District.

Choosing Pungnap-dong as the first stop holds special significance. On his very first day in office in 2022, Mayor Seo also held his first meeting with the residents of Pungnap-dong. This demonstrated his commitment to sharing in the hardships residents face due to cultural heritage preservation.

Residents expressed gratitude for resolving longstanding issues such as the relocation of the Sampyo Factory and the demolition of Pungnap English Village, but also voiced practical concerns. "The population continues to decline, local businesses are losing vitality, and now even safety issues are emerging," they said, adding, "We need environmental improvements in large vacant lots to enhance convenience for residents."

Specific requests followed. In Pungnap 1-dong, residents asked for the smooth progress of the Moa Town project, while in Pungnap 2-dong, they requested the installation of safety supports in the underground passage. There was also a common request: "Please turn the vacant lots left after compensation into green spaces, parks, or sports facilities."

One resident representative added, "We hope that Pungnap-dong, which has endured inconvenience for so long, will now transform into something new. It would be great if there were more attractions to draw people here."

Mayor Seo responded, "I am grateful to the residents who have steadfastly remained in their community despite difficult circumstances. We will accelerate the implementation of related projects so that the development of Pungnap-dong yields tangible results."

The district is currently working to revitalize the Pungnap Market and is creating multi-purpose cultural spaces such as a Youth Artist Center on sites acquired through completed compensation. Projects are also underway to create green spaces throughout the area, including the establishment of a World Garden.

Mayor Seo stated, "Service-oriented administration for residents begins not only with large-scale development projects but also with addressing the small aspects of daily life. This year as well, we will listen closely to residents in various ways and strive to make Songpa a premium city that truly serves its people."

Approximately 30 people attended this annual district tour, including resident representatives such as the heads of the Residents' Autonomy Committee, the Neighborhood Association, and the Saemaul Leaders Council, as well as neighborhood heads and staff. The district plans to deliver the suggestions received on site to the relevant departments and provide the necessary administrative services.