A wave of tourists and visitors has changed the character of the Seoul neighbourhood I live in and helped create a place that no longer feels like home
In 2021, I was asked by Time Out to nominate a Seoul neighbourhood for its annual list of the world’s coolest. I didn’t think much of it and put forward the one I live in, Jongno 3-ga, in the old centre of the city. Somehow, it got ranked third.
This week, the same area was named the coolest neighbourhood in the world. I should be pleased, but instead, I’m devastated.
The ‘cool’ label is a trap. Once you’re on the map, you lose the authenticity that made you desirable in the first place.
Rankings bring money, but they also bring noise and rising rents. Is economic boost worth losing your home’s character?
It’s sad when a neighborhood becomes a brand. I miss the quiet cafes before the influencers took over.
As a local, I’m exhausted by the crowds. Jongno deserves peace, not just another tourist checklist destination.
Oof, the classic host community dilemma. Recognition often comes with gentrification that displaces the very soul people seek.