


Tom Sarlo
Jun 2, 2023
South Korea
Categories:
Korea, Urban, Cities, Redevelopment, Economic Development, Community, Inclusive
Throughout the world, many cities and downtowns have experienced a decline. This inspiring article originated from the Brookings Placemaking Postcards Series of how Seoul, South Korea, lived through economic growth after the Korean War.
A few decades after the end of the Korean War, there was a decline in the older, established industries. The change in the older industries was the start of Seoul's decline. The availability of automobiles, the development of new homes, competitive sectors, and the global markets help fuel the movement of a city's population into more contemporary and pristine areas. Indeed, the suburbs were developing quickly, leaving cities such as Seoul in decline and less attractive.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government wanted to take down declining areas in Seoul, however, the remaining business owners and residents often opposed this vehemently during town hearings. The city officials eventually heard the resident's pleas. The city turned instead to a more inclusive approach, and they listened to the needs of the residents.
Many residents and business owners did not want to leave, and they feared the idea of gentrification. Gentrification is a process by which older, often poorer areas in a city are replaced by wealthier people. Older buildings are rehabilitated and the original, less affluent population is pushed out of the area.
Government members and the residents working together developed an urban growth plan. They created a sustainable program that included walkability around the city and building public spaces. They worked at revitalizing and repurposing old manufacturing buildings. The city officials and residents created advisory groups of tenants, residents, various fields, and brought in experts in culture, the arts, architecture, and economic development. They developed online platforms that joined multiple industries to a new and growing customer base.
Community members and local government encouraged existing and new residents and businesses to get actively involved in decision-making and offered assistance in meeting their needs. The city of Seoul was fortunate to have government officials that eventually listened to the concerns and conditions of the community.
The community collective established several principles. The culture of Seoul is one that respects its history and its community. The community's deep roots are its traditions and it is vitally important that the old buildings not be destroyed.
Seoul is an inclusive city and community, and everyone is an integral part of its foundation; a foundation that has slowly made a turnaround and brought back economic growth. Having a say and working together, whether it is growing or rebuilding, the community is more than its physical buildings and surroundings. The people of Seoul, Korea can and will set a beautiful example of what a community can be. It starts with an open mind and a human approach to include everyone. That's what matters the most. Today, Seoul is a vibrant, world-class city of 10 million people with thriving neighborhoods and a robust economy.
Many cities and towns throughout the world have grown through a similar story. It does take an inclusive approach. The old downtown appearance holds much character and history. The officials listened to the public and understood the needs. The open-mindedness and the act of bringing their people together enabled this city to make a turnaround and revitalize itself. This collaboration can take place anywhere, and it does take an entire village that will make a difference.
The power of community, of getting together people to find a solution is inherent to our nature, as human beings. Afterall, we are social and we have used collective action to help us survive. So, consider it the next time you want to tackle a challenge in your community, big or small. Yes, it's messy and cumbersome, but if you persist you will be amazed at the results.
Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash.
Source:
Source:

Catalog #:
0623.101.01.060223