It is now possible for passenger cars to travel on Yonsei-ro in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (from Sinchon Rotary to Yonsei University) for the first time in 11 years. The section had been designated as a 'car-free street,' prohibiting passenger cars and allowing only buses. It is expected that with the inclusion of passenger cars, foot traffic will increase, aiding in the revitalization of the Sinchon commercial area.
The Seoul city government announced on the 19th that the designation of Yonsei-ro as a public transportation exclusive zone will be lifted starting Jan. 1 next year. In 2014, Seoul had designated a 500-meter section of Yonsei-ro as a public transportation exclusive area, completely restricting passenger cars and allowing only buses. On weekends, even buses were not permitted. The number of lanes was reduced from 2-4 in each direction to 2 lanes total, and the sidewalk width was expanded from 3-4 meters to 7-8 meters.
Merchants in Sinchon and Seodaemun-gu subsequently claimed that the commercial area had declined and called for the removal of the public transportation exclusive zone. Accepting these opinions, the Seoul city government temporarily allowed general vehicle traffic from January to September last year. As a result, the total sales of approximately 700 affiliated stores across 65 business types on Yonsei-ro increased by 6.3%. Sales per store rose by 6.2%. A Seoul city official noted, “The removal of the public transportation exclusive zone is expected to have a sales increase effect,” while also stating, “It is necessary to consider factors such as domestic economic downturns.”
Since October last year, the Seoul city government allowed only buses to operate on Yonsei-ro, but starting next year, passenger cars will also be permitted. However, the entry of passenger cars will remain prohibited on Sundays because various cultural events are held on Yonsei-ro. Additionally, traffic is controlled on a 152-meter section near Hongje Elementary School from 8 to 9 a.m. on weekdays, when children commute to school.