Suncheon launches project to revitalize old downtown by 2030

Suncheon City has launched the ‘Old Downtown Rebuilding Project’ to transform its historic center into a hub for culture and economic activity. Moving away from one-off events and individual store subsidies, the initiative focuses on repurposing existing idle spaces and resources.

The project follows a multi-stage roadmap. In the second half of this year, a task force comprising residents, youth, and experts will be formed to gather community input. Between 2027 and 2028, the city will conduct professional surveys and public discussions to assess abandoned buildings and idle spaces. Implementation is scheduled to take place from 2029 to 2030.

A key component involves a comprehensive survey of vacant stores in the Jungang-dong area next year. The city plans to introduce ‘experimental stores,’ where youth and aspiring entrepreneurs can test business models to determine which types of content best attract visitors and increase stay duration. Additionally, various municipal departments will seek to link vacant spaces with specific policies regarding culture, welfare, tourism, and education to turn empty properties into functional policy hubs.