Euljiro / Sewoon arcade : Where the old and the new coexist - emerging hot spot in Seoul, South Korea

Euljiro is currently one of the most beloved places by young Korean people, where the old and the new coexist in a hustling and bustling city. While here is surrounded by modern high-rise buildings, the time of this area seems to stop back in the past. 

Initial idea of Sewoon arcade

When this area was initially formed and developed back in the 1960s, the most innovative, high-rise mixed use buildings - commercial part on the lower floors and residential part on the upper floors - was built, "Sewoon arcade".  

Before the arcade was built

After the arcade was built

Before Gangnam area was developed, the arcade was seen as a luxurious residence. The shops in the arcade and around the area, however, began to develop by dealing with scrap metal from the US army base. When the rich residents left for Gangnam, the residential part turned into mechanics' homes.

Shops in Euljiro

Including Sewoon arcade, Euljiro area has developed as by far the most well-known area for electric devices and mechanics. Not only selling ready-made items, they can also create anything like a magician. If you want a customized one, you should visit here!

The arcade consists of eight buildings, crossing Cheonggyecheon (stream)

Inside the arcade, pedestrian path

To get to the 3rd floor in the arcade, you can take a lift or stairs 

View from Sewoon arcade -
old buildings' roofs near Sewoon arcade, contrasted by new buildings behind

What attracts young people to Euljiro?

In 2009, Seoul Metropolitan Government planned to redevelop Sewoon arcade and its surrounding area like below. Thankfully, the plan was withdrawn for several reasons - profitability and the national treasure <Jongmyo>, which is located right in front of the arcade.

Redevelopment project (2009)

The area instead came back to citizens - young citizens, who actively reinvigorated Euljiro area. Some of the old shops changed to cafes, restaurants and cultural places. 

Cafe in Euljiro

On the 3rd floor where the most famous cafes and restaurants gather
(night view is also beautiful!)

The deck connecting buildings crosses the stream
- you can sit on the deck overlooking the stream and the city

Cheonggyecheon (청계천)

old buildings next to the arcade

Some parts of the arcade are used for exhibitions, which is also a good way to attract people to this otherwise forgettable building. 

exhibition in Sewoon arcade

Euljiro is still changing and evolving rather than dying out. 

When Dongdaemoon stadium was demolished and DDP was newly built, I was rather frustrated even DDP was designed by one of my favorite architects. 

When the old stadium was gone, my memory with my father visiting the flea market held in the old stadium was demolished too. 

Let's not abandon the old.

A city can survive when we cherish the old and mix well it with the new.