Seongbuk District Designates Korea University Anam Station Area as “Alley Shopping District”

Onnuri Gift Certificates Now Accepted at 205 Stores

Seongbuk District in Seoul (Mayor Lee Seungro) has newly designated the area around Korea University’s Anam Station as the “Korea University Alley Shopping District.” This designation reflects the voluntary organization and revitalization efforts of local merchants, and the district office expects it to serve as a foundation for the systematic development of the shopping district going forward.

Lee Seungro, Mayor of Seongbuk District, and officials are taking a commemorative photo celebrating the designation of Godeok Alley Shopping District. Courtesy of Yongsan District.

The “Korea University Alley Shopping District” covers the area from Exit 3 of Anam Station to the vicinity of Anam Five-way Intersection, encompassing a total area of 9,314 square meters with 205 stores clustered in this university-centered commercial zone. Adjacent to Korea University, the area sees a high floating population of students and young people, with a mix of restaurants, retail shops, and lifestyle-focused businesses.

With this designation, stores within the shopping district can now accept Onnuri gift certificates. This is expected to ease the financial burden on students and nearby residents amid high inflation, while also boosting sales for merchants.

The district plans to use this designation as an opportunity to gradually implement various support initiatives, including improvements to the commercial environment, joint marketing, and festival operations. The goal is to revitalize the stagnant alleyway economy and establish a virtuous cycle for the local economy.

Lee Jaeil, President of the Korea University Alley Shopping District Merchants’ Association, stated at the designation certificate ceremony held on January 22, “With this designation, we will strengthen unity among merchants and lay the foundation for the shopping district’s resurgence.”

Lee Seungro, Mayor of Seongbuk District, said, “The Korea University Alley Shopping District is a place that combines the unique youthful energy of a university area with the potential of the local commercial zone. We will continue to provide administrative support so that it can grow into a sustainable model for alley shopping districts.”