Dongdaemun-gu District Mayor Choi Dong-min checks in on 14 traditional markets ahead of chuseok

Dongdaemun-gu in Seoul will visit 14 traditional markets across the district from Wednesday to Sept. 22 ahead of "chuseok," Korea's autumn harvest holiday. The district plans to hear out merchants' difficulties and check safety conditions at the markets.

District Mayor Choi Dong-min kicked off the inspection Wednesday morning, touring stalls at the Cheongnyangni Fish Market and Gyeongdong Market, among other markets in the district. He encouraged merchants struggling with prolonged weak consumer spending. He then spoke with merchants about market operations and business conditions, listening directly to voices from the front lines of the local economy.

Merchants raised difficulties they face on the ground and support they need, including improvements to market conditions, expanded amenities and business assistance. Choi promised to share the feedback with relevant departments and work out practical support measures through review and consultation.

In addition, with market traffic expected to rise ahead of the holiday, the district will also inspect safety conditions and fire-prevention systems at the markets.

The district plans to broadly gather the issues and suggestions raised by merchants at each market during the visits. It will reflect them in policies to improve traditional market facilities and support small business owners.

"Traditional markets are at the heart of our district's local economy and a precious space closely tied to residents' daily lives," Choi said. "I will carefully follow through so that the voices I heard during this visit lead to real change." He added, "We will continue to communicate closely with merchants and do our best to revitalize traditional market districts by creating an environment where residents can shop with confidence."