Seoul's first initiative under Mayor Oh Se-hoon’s administration focuses on the city’s nightlife.
On July 15, during the first regular executive meeting of his term, Oh declared that revitalizing the night economy would be a key policy agenda, emphasizing a commitment to transforming Seoul's nighttime activities into economic opportunities.
Oh defined the night economy not merely as support for local businesses but as a future growth strategy that integrates culture, tourism, commerce, and transportation into a cohesive ecosystem. His vision aims to transform Seoul into a vibrant global city that thrives 24 hours a day.
“Setting the night economy as the core agenda of the first executive meeting reflects our determination to change the future growth axis of Seoul,” Oh stated. “The night economy is not just about supporting local businesses; it’s about connecting culture, tourism, commerce, and transportation to enhance citizens' leisure culture and boost urban consumption and vitality as a new growth strategy for Seoul,” he emphasized.
He urged all departments to collaborate effectively, stating, “This is a task that requires breaking down the barriers between divisions, so please push forward with a sense of urgency.”
To facilitate this initiative, the Seoul City government will immediately activate a task force led by the night economy special advisor, involving seven key departments: the Planning and Coordination Office, Economic Affairs Bureau, Cultural Headquarters, Transportation Office, Public Relations Planning Office, Tourism and Sports Bureau, and the Labor and Livelihood Bureau. Additionally, a dedicated team within the Economic Affairs Bureau will be established.
The city plans to develop an integrated brand that unifies nighttime content across Seoul and will select a brand name through a public contest, aiming to promote Seoul's nightlife as a significant tourism asset.
Key projects include the 'Night Economy Coexistence Zone' and 'Seoul Moonlight Night Market.' The city is considering designating coexistence zones around major nighttime hubs such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Han River, and Seoul Arena, and will support these areas with incentives for nighttime operations, regulatory relaxations, and expanded late-night public transportation. A new ordinance to promote the night economy in Seoul is also in the works.
The emerging night market culture in areas like Jongno 3-ga and Euljiro will be formalized. Starting with five locations this year, the 'Seoul Moonlight Night Market' will expand to 25 by 2028, with selected commercial districts receiving up to 2 billion won for environmental improvements, branding support, and additional incentives based on operational performance.
Furthermore, the city will increase nighttime access to major cultural facilities such as museums and palaces. It plans to introduce interdisciplinary art programs linked to cultural facilities around Gwanghwamun and develop unique content like 'Night Sauna' at Han River parks and a 'Winter Sleeping Contest' at DDP. Transportation and safety measures will also be enhanced, including expanded late-night bus services and the introduction of autonomous buses and taxis, to create an urban ecosystem where nighttime activities naturally lead to consumption and tourism.
Oh remarked, “The night economy is not just the responsibility of one department; it requires a collaborative effort across culture, tourism, transportation, and economic policy to complete Seoul’s new growth strategy. I am committed to making this a flagship policy that transforms citizens' lives and enhances Seoul's competitiveness.”
He added, “Please make this a representative policy that citizens can feel in their daily lives, alongside initiatives like 'Seoul Without Loneliness,' 'Climate Companion Card,' and 'Reviving the Era of Gangbuk 2.0.'”
The night economy is a crucial growth axis for realizing Oh's vision of making Seoul a 'Global Top 3 City.' This initiative has already been discussed as a key strategic task in the G3 Seoul Planning Committee, which focuses on future economy and global attractiveness. The city aims to develop a new urban economic model that connects increased tourism with local business consumption and job creation.
Based on the discussions from the executive meeting and the G3 Seoul Planning Committee, the city plans to announce a comprehensive 'Seoul Night Economy Revitalization Plan' early next month and will actively pursue its representative growth strategy.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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