"Neighborhood Travel in the New Normal Era" ... Seoul City Introduces 21 'Orega-ge' and 'Healing Theme' Spots

Reflecting Domestic and Nearby Neighborhood Travel Trends After COVID-19

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), domestic travel has gained attention instead of overseas trips, and as daily life to soothe the mind and body exhausted by COVID-19 has become important, the Seoul Metropolitan Government proposes 21 'Orega-gye' (long-lasting stores) in Seoul and neighborhood trips themed on 'healing' reflecting this trend.

On the 10th, the city announced that it had newly discovered 21 Orega-gye in the northeastern area including Seongbuk-gu, Dongdaemun-gu, and Seongdong-gu. Orega-gye is a Korean term meaning 'old and stores hoped to last long,' prioritizing stores in Seoul with a history of over 30 years, those passed down through two or more generations, or stores where masters and artisans such as intangible cultural assets continue their skills and values.

Over the past three years, a total of 85 stores in traditional crafts and lifestyle culture have operated in central Seoul, northwest, and southwest areas. In this northeastern area, 21 stores were finally selected after screening 76 stores recommended by autonomous districts and citizens from 2,149 candidate stores, followed by evaluations from an on-site evaluation team composed of foreigners and international students and expert consultations.

The city also linked the Orega-gye to seven themes so that people can enjoy them through neighborhood trips in Seoul to heal their minds tired from COVID-19.

For example, under the 'Oriental Medicine Healing' theme, visitors can get their constitution diagnosed at Hyoseong Korean Medicine Clinic in Dongdaemun Seoul Yakryeongsi, taste healing herbal teas suited to their constitution, then enjoy various exhibits at the Korean Medicine Museum or have fun experiencing Joseon Dynasty medical personnel costumes.

Reflecting the newtro trend, the 'Gourmet Healing' theme introduces Napoleon Confectionery with a 50-year history, Hamsbrot Confectionery reflecting the skills of Korean masters, and Dongbu Goryeo Bakery. The coffee taste of Bohemian Coffee House, opened in 1990 by first-generation barista Park Yi-chu and currently operated by his disciple, is also a must in the 'Bread Pilgrimage.'

Based on the 21 Orega-gye selected this year and the newly discovered healing themes, the city plans to widely promote the stories of Orega-gye domestically and internationally through travel-specialized platforms, broadcasts, and travel magazines. During the 'Seoul Story Week? Orega-gye Special Week' event held from the 20th to 29th at Garosu-gil, exhibitions about these stores, limited edition product sales, and experiential events with Orega-gye masters will also be held.

Joo Yong-tae, Director of the Seoul Tourism and Sports Bureau, said, "It is now time to prepare for a new normal daily life after COVID-19," adding, "This year's Orega-gye theme focused on healing will be the starting point for enjoying new Seoul travel."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.