I live in the ‘coolest neighbourhood’ in the world. It’s not as great as you’d think
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
TL;DR
- Jongno 3-ga, Seoul, was named the 'coolest neighborhood in the world,' a title that has negatively impacted its character.
- The neighborhood was previously a humble, unpretentious refuge for marginalized communities and LGBTQ+ individuals.
- The influx of tourists after Covid has led to gentrification, rising rents, and displacement of long-term residents and businesses.
- The area has been commercialized with tourist shops and eateries, losing its unique identity and sense of home for the author.
- The author feels partially responsible for highlighting the neighborhood, contributing to its transformation.