City gov’t report tracks consumers’ preferences

The Seoul city government released a report yesterday that provided a window into the popularity and lifespan of independent shops operating in Seoul, detailing the number of particular businesses and the most popular types of establishments in each city district.

The annual report, which provided data for 2013, is intended to offer a glimpse into fickle consumer preferences and how those choices affect different outlets, including restaurants, hair salons and cram schools.

In Mapo District in western Seoul, for example, cafes make up the highest proportion of shops. The Hongik University neighborhood, an area famous for its array of coffee shops, is located there.

In Nowon District, northern Seoul, where the area’s parents are known for their enthusiasm for education, cram schools and day care centers make up the majority of businesses.

Moving to the southern part of Seoul, Japanese restaurants, hospitals, dental clinics and convenience stores were most ubiquitous in Gangnam District, one of the busiest hangout places in Seoul.

Jung District - where Myeong-dong, a popular tourist destination, is located - had the highest number of clothing shops. And the affluent Songpa District had the greatest number of golf ranges.

In Eunpyeong District, real estate agencies held the No.1 spot.

The report also detailed the lifespan of certain enterprises to determine what sort of shops were well received over a long period of time. The city government listed 15 top businesses based on their “survival rate” - the likelihood that businesses would still be operating after three years.

Day care centers topped the list, followed by hospitals and dental clinics. Pharmacies ranked No. 4.

Internet cafes and gaming centers were the least likely to stay in business for more than three years.

BY PARK EUN-JEE [ejpark@joongang.co.kr]