Taehakno to Be Traffic Free Once a Month

Taehakno (University Avenue), an area known for its theaters and a popular gathering places for young people in Seoul, will soon enjoy a car-free area with car traffic being prohibited from entering the area in the afternoons of the last Saturday of each month starting from May.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced this measure in order to prevent the street from losing its appeal and to encourage street performances and art. Designated as 'Performance Day,' the area will be blocked off from vehicular traffic and people will be able to roam the area at their leisure from noon until 6 p.m. The cordoned-off area will be from entrance number 1 at Hyehwa subway station to roughly the back entrance of Seoul National University Hospital (about 350 meters).

In response to the ministry's action, the Korea Drama Association, along with many other groups, is planning to celebrate by holding various performances such as improvisation and highlights from musicals presently showing at venues in Taehakno.

by Park Jeong-ho