The district of Jongno-gu in Seoul will begin comprehensive improvements on the pedestrian environment around Gyedong-gil, the entrance area to Bukchon Hanok Village, starting on the 13th of this month.
This project aims for completion in the first half of 2026, focusing on harmonizing the area’s traditional beauty with its role as a tourist destination. Jongno-gu plans to replace the outdated pavement blocks and roads to enhance both safety and aesthetics.
Gyedong-gil is a place where the 600-year-old Hanok Village’s history coexists with modern commercial facilities, serving as a major tourist transit point connecting Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. The area around Gyedong-gil 52-12 is designated as the ‘Bukchon Gyedong-gil Alley Market’, where workshops, hanoks, and over 100 shops coexist in harmony.
This region, frequented by both tourists and residents, has faced complaints about aging pavements and narrow pedestrian spaces leading to walking inconvenience and safety concerns due to vehicle congestion. In response, Jongno-gu is undertaking a complete overhaul of the pavements and roads along a 410-meter stretch from Gyedong-gil 50 to 128.
The pavements will be transformed into natural stone slabs with a daechungmaru pattern reflecting Bukchon’s traditional sentiment, and the roads will be paved with colored asphalt, creating a street that blends tradition with modernity. Accessibility and convenience for both residents and tourists will also be enhanced to allow comfortable walking and resting.
This year, a budget of 520 million won from city funds will be used to primarily renovate the section from Gyedong-gil 50 to 93 (240 meters). Next year, another 500 million won will complete the renovations up to Gyedong-gil 128 (170 meters), alongside additional safety improvements such as installing reflective pavement markers.
During the construction, Jongno-gu plans to continuously consult with the merchants’ association and local residents to minimize business disruptions. Measures to reduce inconvenience to citizens will include assigning pedestrian safety assistants and installing information signs.
Jongno-gu Mayor Jung Mun-heon stated, “We aim to create a pleasant street environment where tradition and modernity merge, satisfying both residents and visitors on Gyedong-gil.”