Three-day event showcases products from 25 markets nationwide, aiming to boost regional commerce
A large-scale fair bringing together products from South Chungcheong Province's top traditional markets alongside representative markets from Daejeon, Sejong, North Gyeongsang Province and other regions opened Friday.
South Chungcheong Province held the opening ceremony of the South Chungcheong Excellent Market Fair at the parking lot of Seosan General Stadium on Friday.
Co-hosted by the provincial government, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, Seosan City and the South Chungcheong Merchants' Federation, the event runs through Sunday.
A total of 25 traditional markets and shopping districts from across the country are taking part, including 22 from South Chungcheong Province and one each from Daejeon, Sejong and North Gyeongsang Province.
The venue features 50 pavilions in all — 37 exhibition and sales booths, 10 food market stalls and three experience and promotional halls — showcasing top products from traditional markets and local communities while offering visitors a range of food and hands-on activities.
Live commerce broadcasts will also be run to promote products and support expanded sales channels.
The province hopes the fair will strengthen exchanges among traditional markets, widen distribution channels for quality local products and inject new energy into regional commerce.
The opening ceremony, attended by Vice Governor Hong Jong-wan along with other guests of honor, traditional market merchants and small business owners, featured commendations for meritorious individuals, congratulatory remarks, a commemorative ceremony and a tour of the venue.
After the ceremony, Hong toured the exhibition and sales booths and food market stalls, encouraging merchants and listening to their concerns. "Traditional markets are the heart of the local economy, carrying the history and culture of their communities and sustaining the livelihoods of ordinary people," he said. "I hope this fair will spread the word about the outstanding products and unique charm of traditional markets, and serve as a place of harmony where merchants and residents come together."
kwonhl@heraldcorp.com
