Gangbuk-gu and Seoul Metropolitan Government will jointly invest 1 billion KRW by 2026 to revitalize the 4.19 Café Street commercial area. Additionally, the Seoul Credit Guarantee Foundation plans to provide financing support of up to 500 million KRW per entrepreneur.
The project has officially begun following the selection of the 4.19 Café Street as a finalist in Seoul’s 2025 Local Brand Commercial Area Development Contest. Gangbuk-gu aims to identify key stores, collaborate with local businesses to develop fresh content, and enhance the area’s recognition.
The targeted area, the 4.19 Café Street, spans 242,659㎡ and is located near the National 4.19 Democracy Cemetery and Academy House. It boasts excellent accessibility through proximity to Ui-Sinseol Line’s 4.19 Democracy Station, combined with rich historical and cultural resources as well as the natural beauty of Bukhansan National Park.
Gangbuk-gu has set the vision of transforming the area into a peaceful retreat for residents pursuing a balanced urban-rural lifestyle under the catchphrase, “4.19 Café Street—A Pause in My Life.” Over the next two years, initiatives will include selecting and supporting anchor stores, developing unique menus, strengthening local business capabilities, improving the street environment, and organizing community-driven events.
Lee Soon-hee, Mayor of Gangbuk-gu, stated, “In collaboration with the 4.19 Specialized Street Merchants Association, we will also promote cooperative agreements with property owners to prevent gentrification. Our goal is to elevate the 4.19 Café Street into one of Seoul’s flagship commercial districts, bringing renewed energy to the local economy.”
