“I participated as a trip and outing, and it was enjoyable to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the market with diverse sights and foods.”
The Small Business Market Promotion Agency (SBA) is receiving positive feedback for its 'Traditional Market Coexistence Tour' in collaboration with credit unions.
According to the SBA on September 22, the 'Traditional Market Coexistence Tour,' which began in May, is being held 52 times across 23 cultural tourism markets nationwide, with approximately 4,000 participants expected.
The tour connects regular tourism programs for credit union members with cultural tourism markets supported by the SBA, providing new customers for traditional markets and unique outing opportunities for members. The SBA and credit unions signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in December last year.
On September 10, 80 members of the Incheon Sungui Credit Union participated in the tour at the Seosan Haemi Eupseong Traditional Market. Participants enjoyed the lively atmosphere of the market, purchasing seasonal fruits and engaging in a 'wish bell hanging' experience. They also visited nearby tourist attractions, including Haemi Eupseong.
The Traditional Market Coexistence Tour includes various programs tailored to each market, such as consumer tours for purchasing local specialties, story tours that explore the market's history, experiential tours visiting food and artisan shops, and seasonal theme tours linked to local festivals.
Participants receive Onnuri gift certificates to encourage actual spending in the market. The SBA provides 10,000 won, and the credit union contributes an additional 10,000 won, totaling 20,000 won per person in gift certificates.
In June, the 'Bapsim Road' event was held at the Gwangju Namgwangju Market for 44 members of the Mokpo Daesung Credit Union. The market's president introduced its history, and activities included food experiences, shopping, a tour of the Green Road, and souvenir giveaways. One participant expressed, “I would love to participate again if there’s another opportunity,” smiling brightly.
In Tae-yeon, the SBA chairman, stated, “To ensure the sustainable growth of traditional markets, it is essential to secure regular customers who visit frequently. The agency aims to connect new customers with purchasing power to traditional markets through the Traditional Market Coexistence Tour, creating a model where visits lead to actual spending and increased sales.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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