대인 예술시장을 다녀오다
<#310 Reporter’s Sketch>
Enjoying Art and Life at Daein Market in Gwangju
By Jang Keun-won, Tribune Reporter
Where do you go shopping? Maybe you mainly go to major supermarkets, right? When you hear about street markets, what comes to mind? What about haggling between customers and merchants or an energetic and active atmosphere? People do not often visit street markets nowadays. Major supermarkets have replaced them in terms of function and role. But for a long time, street markets were the driving force of economic development in Korea. Therefore the situation where markets are declining is ironic. Facilities have recently been improved with customers in mind. Art is infusing a new energy to Daein street market with a focus on young artists. I went to Daein to experience its changes firsthand.
When I entered Daein traditional market, its directory impressed me with charming drawings and descriptions of the building. It made me interested in exploring further. Daein market has a specific place that offers goods and tools needed by merchants in the market. And antique shops were selling goods at very cheap prices. One shop in particular surprised me by selling all its items at one thousand won. There is an unattended cafe where you put our money into the jar if you want some drinks. I usually walk very fast but I slowed my pace to watch and enjoy details around Daein market. As I strolled down the market, I saw that the market is not just for buying goods or grocery shopping but also relaxing and enjoying the art displayed on the shutters of the shops and the wall of the market.
As I talked to the shopkeeps, they responded with a smile, providing lots of useful tips about the market, and trying to promote their market. I think the market traders have great sense of pride in the market. Most of shops at Daein market have different signage and interiors. They are not just selling stuff, but selling Daein market. I felt so much energy and sensed their pride in Daein market. If you visit the market, you can feel energized but relaxed from people being full of energy, its unique atmosphere different from other local markets and diverse art works.
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