The urban regeneration of Sinheung Market and the surrounding area, which keep historical traces and values of Haebangchon but have declined since the 1990s, will be completed in the second half of 2021, six years after the beginning of the project.

 

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) selected Haebangchon as an urban regeneration area in December 2015 and began the regeneration project in full swing. The SMG has turned Sinheung Market into the center of the local commercial area, as the successful model of the design innovation of the urban regeneration and the attraction to lead the local economy. In recent years, the market has become a tourist attraction with its concentration of various workshops and cafes that have been featured in popular TV shows and drama series.

In Sinheung Market, the coexistence of “hip” stores, such as stylish cafes, video arcades and leather workshops, and existing stores that keep the appearance of the 1970-80s makes a unique “newtro” (new + retro) feeling. The place has become popular among social media users as a photo zone as it has been featured as filming locations for popular TV shows and drama series, such as Baek Jong-won’s Alley Restaurant, When the Camellia Blooms, and Itaewon Class.
 

Shooting of When the Camellia Blooms (KBS)A restaurant in Sinheung Market featured in Baek Jong-won’s Alley Restaurant (SBS)

The SMG will remove the dilapidated slate roof that makes the market look dark and dull and install an arcade of innovative design that is bright even during nighttime. Old public restroom and market streets will be replaced with clean ones, and the view will be improved with the installation of landscape lighting. Drainage and fire extinguishing facilities will be repaired and CCTVs will be newly installed to bolster security. Space for events and rest will be created as well.

It is expected that after the completion of the Sinheung Market environment improvement project, which is the core project of the urban regeneration of Haebangchon, inconveniences of residents and merchants will not only be largely addressed, but Sinheung Market will also be reborn into the economic and cultural hub of Haebangchon, revitalizing the local economy.