Seoul breaks ground on Shin Jungang Market transformation

Seoul has commenced constructing an upgraded version of the iconic Shin Jungang Market in the heart of the city, with the ambitious goal of transforming it into a must-visit destination for both shoppers and tourists. Aimed at providing a space where locals and visitors alike can indulge in local cuisine, relax in designated areas, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region, the project marks the inaugural venture under the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Design Innovation Traditional Market initiative.

Scheduled for completion by August 2027, the groundbreaking ceremony took place at the market, symbolizing the start of a significant chapter in the market's storied history.

Originally established as Seongdong Market in 1962, Shin Jungang Market rapidly became one of Seoul's earliest commercial epicenters, playing a pivotal role in the city's postwar economic resurgence alongside Namdaemun and Dongdaemun markets. Over time, it earned a reputation as the capital's principal wholesale hub for grain and dried fish, deeply entwined with Seoul's daily life and culinary traditions.

The comprehensive redesign will see the demolition of the market's existing arcade, replaced by an eco-friendly wooden roof that will maximize natural light exposure.

In addition to the structural changes, the redevelopment plan incorporates terraced resting areas, enhancing the market's appeal as a leisure destination. Furthermore, improvements in connectivity between the market's various sections will ensure a seamless visitor experience. This ambitious transformation seeks not only to modernize the market but also to preserve its historic essence, promising a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary functionality for generations to come.