Gangwon Province to Launch Major Traditional Market Shopping Event for Chuseok

Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Governor Kim Jin-tae) announced on September 18 that, ahead of the Chuseok holiday, it will launch a traditional market shopping event from September 19 to October 2 for ten days. The event aims to revitalize local traditional markets that have been sluggish due to rising prices. All provincial government departments, affiliated and funded institutions, local public enterprises, and city and county employees will participate by visiting traditional markets throughout the province.

A panoramic view of Gangwon Provincial Government Building. Provided by Gangwon Provincial Government.

During the event period, each agency and department, together with city and county officials, will visit traditional markets to shop for holiday goods. They will also have lunch at traditional markets, small business stores, and Good Price-certified establishments, each paying for their own meals. In addition, led by the heads of provincial departments, a "Special Price Stability Inspection" will be conducted to monitor holiday price trends and to establish sound business practices.

Since September, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province has already been running a consumption recovery campaign to boost sales at traditional markets, neighborhood commercial districts, and small stores, thereby revitalizing the local economy. As part of this effort, the province has institutionalized regular traditional market shopping events every month, and every Wednesday encourages the use of local eateries to promote daily consumer spending.

To alleviate inconvenience for residents visiting traditional markets ahead of Chuseok, the province will temporarily expand the number of designated parking and stopping zones around traditional markets from six to forty-five locations for thirty-nine days, from September 1 to October 19.

Additionally, to ensure fire safety in traditional markets, which see a surge in visitors during this period, the province is conducting fire safety inspections through its "Five-Part Traditional Market Safety Management Enhancement Package."

Kim Manho, Director of Economic Affairs, stated, "Despite challenging economic conditions, and especially as Gangneung continues to suffer from drought, I am grateful to the traditional market merchants who steadfastly support the local economy. I hope that all residents will visit traditional markets with their families this Chuseok, fill their shopping baskets with high-quality local agricultural and seafood products, and actively participate in warm-hearted consumption."

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