Seoul plans new nightlife districts

(Photo by Seoul Metropolitan Government/courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)

Seoul is moving forward with a new program aimed at turning neighborhood food streets into nighttime destinations, combining outdoor dining with nearby cultural and tourism attractions.

The city held its final public evaluation for the “Seoul Moonlight Yajang” project on September 14, with 10 commercial districts competing to become the first locations. The initiative is part of Seoul’s broader effort to encourage people to spend more time in neighborhood business districts after dark.

The finalists are Serosu-gil in Gangnam, the Suyu Station area in Gangbuk, Sadang Orak Moonlight Yajang in Gwanak, Konkuk University Food Street in Gwangjin, International Food Culture Street in Guro, Changdong Station Shopping Street in Dobong, Sadang 1-dong Food Alley in Dongjak, Songhae-gil in Jongno, Sinjungang Market in Jung-gu and Sangbong Food Alley in Jungnang.

The locations were narrowed down from 19 districts across 15 gu through document reviews and on-site evaluations. A panel of five experts and 50 residents will determine the final selections based on factors including accessibility, nighttime appeal, safety, business participation and plans for addressing noise and other potential neighborhood concerns.

Selected districts will be eligible for up to 2 billion won each through 2028. Funding can be used for outdoor dining areas, lighting, pedestrian improvements, CCTV, restrooms, waste facilities, signage and nighttime cultural programs.

Seoul plans to expand the Moonlight Yajang program to 25 locations by 2028. Local merchants and residents will also be required to establish rules covering operating hours, noise, odors, cleanliness and pedestrian access.

USAG Yongsan