Politics · South Korea · 13 hrs ago
Seoul Station Plaza becomes an alcohol-free zone
Seoul's Jung and Yongsan ward offices designated the area around Seoul Station as alcohol-free starting Monday.
The rule covers about 20,000 square meters of outdoor space in central Seoul.
The plaza has long been a gathering place for homeless people and a site for free meals.
Passersby have complained about rowdy behavior by people drinking there, including during the day.
Violators will face a 50,000-won fine after Feb.
28, when the grace period ends.
Until then, local authorities will put up signs and banners and run campaigns to encourage people to follow the rule voluntarily.
Ward officials, police and Korea Railroad Corp.
are also informing the public through a campaign and leaflets.
Seoul Station Plaza was designated an alcohol-free zone starting Nov. 9, officials said.
The zone covers about 20,000 square meters of outdoor space around Seoul Station.
The policy was introduced amid complaints about people drinking and causing discomfort to passersby.
Violators will face a 50,000-won fine after a grace period ending Feb. 28.
Local authorities plan to use signs, banners and public campaigns to encourage voluntary compliance.
- Who
- Seoul's Jung and Yongsan ward offices jointly oversee the area and announced the designation.
- What
- Seoul Station Plaza and surrounding outdoor space have been designated an alcohol-free zone.
- When
- The designation started Monday, Nov. 9, 2026. Fines will apply after a grace period ending Feb. 28.
- Where
- About 20,000 square meters around Seoul Station in Seoul.
- Why
- Officials cited complaints about homeless people drinking and causing discomfort to passersby.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Seoul Station Plaza was designated as an alcohol-free zone.
Local authorities plan to install signs and banners and run promotional campaigns.
Violators will be fined 50,000 won once the grace period ends.
- Area designated
- About 20,000 square meters
- Fine
- 50,000 won (US$37)
- Grace period ends
- Feb. 28
- Jointly overseeing offices
- Jung and Yongsan ward offices