PHOTOS: Retro street in central Seoul faces uncertain future
By Park Jong-hyeokPosted : July 26, 2024, 17:59Updated : 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.