Jongno-gu to enhance management of Jongno 3-ga street food districts

Following Jongno 3-ga being named the number one ‘coolest neighborhood’ in the world by Time Out, Jongno-gu is implementing enhanced management measures for its outdoor street food districts (yachang streets).

The district is focusing on a ‘win-win street’ model rather than mass removals of street stalls. Currently, 77 businesses participate in this system, which enforces specific operating boundaries and hours from 6:00 PM to 4:00 AM. To maintain order, the district will conduct regular inspections for illegal expansions and enforce administrative penalties.

Key improvements include designating smoking areas, installing more trash cans, and hiring additional personnel to manage sanitation and prevent public urination in alleyways. To address restroom shortages, the district will expand the use of private open toilets, providing subsidies for cleaning and renovation costs. Additionally, daily water cleaning will be conducted in high-traffic areas to ensure cleanliness and pedestrian safety.