PHOTOS: Retro street in central Seoul faces uncertain future

By Park Jong-hyeok Posted : July 26, 2024, 17:59 Updated : July 26, 2024, 17:59
SEOUL, July 26 (AJU PRESS) - A quaint retro street nestled between Kangbuk Samsung Hospital and the Jongno-gu Office Annex in central Seoul faces an uncertain future.

Called Donuimun Museum Village, the area opened in 2017 as part of an urban regeneration project undertaken by former liberal Mayor Park Won-soon.

The street's nostalgic ambiance stands in stark contrast to its modern surroundings in the city center. The village was originally intended to preserve and showcase Seoul's traditional charm, but it failed to attract significant visitor numbers.

Recently, the Seoul city government announced plans to demolish the area and merge it with the nearby Gyeonghuigung Palace to create a new historical and cultural park. 

The decision has sparked controversy, with some critics arguing it is an attempt by conservative Mayor Oh Se-hoon to erase the legacy of his liberal predecessor.
 
Entrance to Donuimun Museum Village in Seoul taken on July 26 2024 A steep staircase makes access difficult for visitors AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
This photo, taken on July 26, 2024, shows the entrance to Donuimun Museum Village in Seoul. A steep staircase makes access difficult for visitors. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
 
Jongno-gu Office Annex and Donuimun Museum Village separated by a narrow street photographed on July 26 2024 The annex building blocks much of the museum village from view on nearby main roads AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
This photo, taken on July 26, 2024, shows a narrow street separating Jongno-gu Office Annex and Donuimun Museum Village. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
 
Retro theater inside Donuimun Museum Village photographed on July 26 2024 AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
This photo, taken on July 26, 2024, shows a retro movie theater inside Donuimun Museum Village. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
 
Interior view of Donuimun Museum Village taken on July 26 2024 AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
This photo, taken on July 26, 2024, shows a building inside Donuimun Museum Village. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
 
Vintage movie posters lined up inside Donuimun Museum Village in Jongno Seoul on July 26 2024 AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
This photo, taken on July 26, 2024, shows vintage movie posters inside Donuimun Museum Village. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
 
History museum inside Donuimun Museum Village in Jongno Seoul on July 26 2024 The site is designed to showcase the history of Gyeonghuigung Palace areas AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
This photo, taken on July 26, 2024, shows a history museum inside Donuimun Museum Village. It showcases the history of Gyeonghuigung Palace areas. AJU PRESS Park Jong-hyeok
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