President Lee Makes Surprise Visit to Ulsan Traditional Market... "Will There Be More Livelihood Coupons?"

President Lee Jae-myung is speaking at the 'Listening to the Heart of Ulsan' town hall meeting held on the 23rd at the Ulsan Exhibition and Convention Center. Photo by Yonhap News

On January 23, President Lee Jaemyung visited Namchang Onggi Jonggi Market in Ulju-gun, Ulsan, where he encouraged merchants and interacted with local citizens.

Jeon Eunsu, Deputy Spokesperson for the Presidential Office, stated in a written briefing that President Lee visited the market prior to attending the Ulsan town hall meeting. Namchang Onggi Jonggi Market is a five-day market held in the Namchang-ri area, which was home to a grain warehouse during the Joseon Dynasty, and the visit coincided with a market day.

According to Deputy Spokesperson Jeon, citizens welcomed President Lee, asking, "Did you have a good trip to China?" and cheering him on with "Mr. President, fighting!" President Lee responded by shaking hands, taking selfies, and wishing people "Happy New Year."

President Lee purchased local foods such as garakyeot (traditional Korean taffy), donuts, chestnuts, and green onions using Onnuri gift certificates. He also shared pears and fried snacks with his entourage immediately after buying them. A merchant waving a sign that read "Livelihood Consumption Coupons Accepted" told President Lee, "Will you be giving out the coupons again? They were really helpful."

Later, President Lee had lunch with Jo Jongjun, President of the Namchang Onggi Jonggi Market Merchants' Association, and his entourage, expressing interest by asking questions such as "How many stores are there?" and "How many five-day markets are nearby?"