Seoul's Last Speaker Seller: 42 Years at Sewoon Plaza as Customers Vanish
Longtime electronics merchant struggles as redevelopment fears and changing culture drive away shoppers
Quick Look
- Ha Sung-ki has sold large speakers to churches and event halls from his electronics shop inside Seoul's Sewoon Plaza for 42 years.
- Now, fewer than 10 customers visit daily, down from the bustling merchant network of the past.
- Redevelopment rumors and the disappearance of vintage electronics culture have nearly emptied the historic shopping corridor.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Sewoon Plaza was once a bustling hub for electronics merchants in Seoul, attracting customers seeking vintage products and the experience of assembling electronic components. Redevelopment plans have lingered for years, creating uncertainty that has driven away shoppers.
For 42 years, Ha Sung-ki has sold large speakers to churches and event halls from his electronics shop inside Seoul's Sewoon Plaza. On a weekday afternoon, the corridor outside – once part of a bustling merchants' network – is largely empty. “These days, the number of customers crossing the street to come here can be counted on your fingers – sometimes fewer than 10 a day,” he said. “People used to come for the nostalgia, the vintage products and the experience of assembling electronic components. But that whole culture has disappeared.” Some callers even ask him whether the building still exists. “People think the building is already gone because of redevelopment plans, so they don’t come any more,” he said.
Open Questions
- What are the specific redevelopment plans for Sewoon Plaza?
- How many other merchants remain in the building?
- Is there any government or community effort to preserve the electronics district?
