Seoul Aims for 5 Trillion Won Boost in Nighttime Economy

Seoul is launching a comprehensive plan to invigorate its nighttime economy, aiming to significantly increase late-night consumer spending and attract more tourists. The initiative, dubbed 'Seoul Type Night Economy,' seeks to link citizens' lives after work with tourism and local commerce by extending activities from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Mayor Oh Se-hoon announced the '24-Hour Vitality Economy City Seoul' plan, setting ambitious goals: an additional 5 trillion won in annual nighttime consumption within five years, attracting 30 million foreign tourists, and increasing the nighttime sales proportion for small businesses to over 50%. The city will expand late-night access to cultural and sports facilities, with 269 sports centers potentially operating until midnight and eight municipal museums and art galleries offering extended hours starting in September.

Key landmarks like DDP, Namsan, Gwanghwamun, and the Han River will be developed into four major nighttime attractions, featuring unique content such as night views and media art. The 'Seoul Moonlight Night Market' program will also expand significantly, from five locations this year to 25 by 2028.

To support these efforts, Seoul will introduce late-night transportation and safety measures. Starting in October, a 'firefly bus' service will connect major nighttime hotspots like Hongdae, Gwanghwamun, and Gangnam to subway stations. Artificial intelligence-powered CCTV will monitor crowd density in busy areas, and 'Seoul Security Guards' will enhance patrols in districts with high late-night foot traffic. "We will connect the vitality that starts with citizens' rich evenings to opportunities in tourism and alleyway commerce," Mayor Oh stated.

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We will connect the vitality that starts with citizens' rich evenings to opportunities in tourism and alleyway commerce.