Baeknyeon Market in Gangbuk-gu Undergoes Major Transformation as a Model Traditional Market Through Innovation in Safety, Content, and Coexistence

Awarded the Prime Minister's Commendation for Contributions to the Revitalization of Traditional Markets

On November 26, Gangbuk-gu in Seoul (District Mayor Lee Soonhee) announced that, thanks to the district's active support, Baeknyeon Market has achieved innovation in three key areas-safety, content, and coexistence-establishing itself as a model traditional market. The market received the "2025 Prime Minister's Commendation for Contributions to the Revitalization of Traditional Markets and Shopping Districts."

Baeknyeon Market in Gangbuk-gu, which introduced a "one-way and time-limited car-free street." Provided by Gangbuk-gu.

By modernizing outdated facilities, the market completed an arcade and a customer support center in 2024, creating a pleasant shopping environment. However, as increased vehicle traffic raised safety concerns, the district conducted a traffic system reform study and held community briefings starting in February last year. As a result, from August 30 last year, a "one-way and time-limited car-free street" was introduced in the central section of the market. This measure restricts vehicle traffic from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., significantly enhancing pedestrian safety.

Additionally, three unsightly street stalls were converted into food trucks, offering unique food options and contributing to the improvement of the market environment. This year, the market secured a budget of approximately 140 million won by being selected for the Safety Management Package Support Project. Fire safety is being strengthened by replacing electrical wiring and gas facilities in 48 stores.

Content innovation is also noteworthy. The "Gangbuk Baekmaek Festival," held at Baeknyeon Market and other locations, has attracted a cumulative 150,000 visitors and generated 800 million won in sales over three years, establishing itself as a local attraction. The "Baeknyeon Night" night market program introduced, for the first time in the country, a reward and experience coin system alongside a giant mirror ball and DJ performances. Over four days, the event drew about 28,000 visitors and generated approximately 120 million won in sales. Safety management at the event venue was also thoroughly implemented.

To boost food competitiveness, the "Baeknyeon Food 31 Contest" was held to discover new mobile food menu items, strengthening gourmet content tailored to the night market. Efforts for coexistence are ongoing as well. The merchants' association conducts sharing activities such as providing food ingredients for reclusive youth and, in collaboration with welfare centers, is promoting support projects for vulnerable groups, including ramen sharing and bazaars. Baeknyeon Market and Jangmiwon Alley Market were the only markets in Seoul to be selected simultaneously for the 2025 Culture and Tourism Market Development Project.

Lee Soonhee, Mayor of Gangbuk-gu, stated, "We will continue to gather residents' opinions and strive to create a safe market environment," adding, "We will do our best to ensure Baeknyeon Market grows into a culture and tourism-oriented market representing both Gangbuk-gu and Korea."

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