PHOTOS: Changsin-dong: Central Seoul's highest enclave

SEOUL, August 20 (AJU PRESS) - Changsin-dong, nestled in Seoul's Jongno district, stands as the area's highest neighborhood. This historic enclave blends traditional and modern Korea, offering a unique urban experience.

Perched atop Jongno, Changsin-dong boasts panoramic city views. Once a thriving hub of sewing factories near Dongdaemun, it played a crucial role in Korea's garment industry.

A panoramic view of Changsin-dong area in Jongno Seoul taken from a viewpoint near the hilltop on Aug 12 2024 AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok — A panoramic view of Changsin-dong area in Jongno, Seoul, taken from a viewpoint near the hilltop on Aug. 12, 2024. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok

A view of the Seoul City Wall seen from a viewpoint near the hilltop of Changsin-dong Jongno Seoul on Aug 12 2024 AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok — A view of the Seoul City Wall seen from a viewpoint near the hilltop of Changsin-dong, Jongno, Seoul, on Aug. 12, 2024. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok

A signpost near the hilltop of Changsin-dong Jongno-gu Seoul photographed on Aug 12 2024 The post roughly indicates distances to various hometowns reflecting the neighborhoods history as a settlement for migrants AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok — A signpost near the hilltop of Changsin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, indicates distances to various hometowns, reflecting the neighborhood's history as a settlement for migrants. It was photographed on Aug. 12, 2024, AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok

A road leading to the hilltop of Changsin-dong Jongno Seoul photographed on Aug 12 2024 The road is characterized by its steep incline and numerous curves AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok — A road leading to the hilltop of Changsin-dong, Jongno, Seoul, photographed on Aug. 12, 2024. The road is characterized by its steep incline and numerous curves. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok

Known for its diverse migrant population, Changsin-dong initially attracted Nepali settlers. Recently, Vietnamese workers have also established a presence, leading to the growth of businesses catering to their needs.

Shops with Vietnamese signage in a commercial area of Changsin-dong Jongno Seoul photographed on Aug 13 2024 The presence of these stores reflects the growing Vietnamese community in the neighborhood AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok — Shops with Vietnamese signage in a commercial area of Changsin-dong, Jongno, Seoul, photographed on Aug. 13, 2024. The presence of these stores reflects the growing Vietnamese community in the neighborhood. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok

Shops with foreign language signage in a commercial area of Changsin-dong Jongno Seoul photographed on Aug 13 2024 The presence of these stores reflects the growing Vietnamese community in the neighborhood AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok — Shops with foreign language signage in a commercial area of Changsin-dong, Jongno, Seoul, photographed on Aug. 13, 2024. The presence of these stores reflects the growing Vietnamese community in the neighborhood. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok

Meanwhile, Changsin-dong has weathered urban redevelopment pressures, including "New Town" plans, initially opting for regeneration. Recently, the neighborhood has begun partial redevelopment while preserving its unique character.