Dreams of jokbal may fill your head. But Jangchung-dong offers so much more than just that famous dish. Let’s explore this Seoul neighborhood. Jangchung-dong is a dong in Jung District. That means it is a specific neighborhood within the larger district of Jung.
Jangchung-dong’s story begins with a place called Jangchungdan. Jangchungdan was established in 1900. It was a site for honoring people. These people were loyal subjects and martyrs. They gave their lives for Korea during the Eulmi Incident. The Eulmi Incident involved the assassination of Empress Myeongseong.
The name “Jangchung-dong” came later. In 1946, Seoul changed many neighborhood names. The goal was to replace Japanese-style names. They wanted names with Korean roots. So, the area became known as Jangchung-dong. It was named after the historic Jangchungdan.
Today, Jangchung-dong has many attractions. The National Theater of Korea is here. It is a place to see performances. Jangchung Gymnasium hosts sporting events and concerts. Several hotels also call Jangchung-dong home. These include the Grand Ambassador Seoul hotel and the Shilla Hotel.
You can visit Jangchungdan Park in Jangchung-dong. It offers green space and historical significance. The Advisory on Democratic Peaceful Unification is also located here. The Korea Freedom League has its headquarters in Jangchung-dong. Its building is called the Freedom Center.
Even a church is located in Jangchung-dong. The Kyungdong Presbyterian Church is here. It offers a place for worship. Or relax at the Banyan Tree Club and Spa.
Jangchung-dong covers 1.36 square kilometers. In 2013, it had a population of 5,622 people. That equals a population density of 4,100 people per square kilometer. That is about 11,000 people per square mile. Jangchung-dong is a place of history and modern life. It honors the past while embracing the present. Take a stroll through Jangchung-dong. Experience its unique charm for yourself.