# Seoul Expands Moonlight Outdoor Dining to 25 Alleys by 2028

- URL: https://hallyu-brief.vercel.app/en/news/seoul-moonlight-outdoor-dining-local-districts-foreign-tourists-2f506d
- Published: 2026-10-17T23:12:45.375Z
- Publisher: Hallyu Brief

> Seoul is expanding its Moonlight Outdoor Dining program to 25 sites by 2028 to draw foreign tourists into neighborhood alleys after dark.

## Key points

1. Six districts were selected for this year's Moonlight Outdoor Dining project.
2. Selected alleys will get better lighting, CCTV, restrooms and luggage lockers.
3. Since 2022, 17 local commercial districts have been chosen over five rounds.

## What is Seoul Moonlight Outdoor Dining?

Seoul's Moonlight Outdoor Dining is a city program that turns neighborhood streets into lively evening spaces where people can eat and drink outdoors. According to the city, the goal is to build nightlife hubs that revive alley shopping areas and encourage tourists to visit after sunset.

## Which districts were selected this year?

This year the city picked six commercial areas:

| District | Area |
|---|---|
| Gwangjin-gu | Konkuk Mat-ui-geori |
| Dongjak-gu | Sadang 1-dong Meokja Alley |
| Gwanak-gu | Sadang Oraks Moonlight Outdoor Dining |
| Dobong-gu | Changdong Station Shopping Street |
| Jungnang-gu | Sangbong Meokja Alley |
| Gangnam-gu | Sinsa Se-ro-su-gil |

## What improvements are planned?

The selected streets will receive upgraded night lighting, walkways, street lamps, CCTV and restrooms. Luggage storage lockers will also be installed so visitors can explore without carrying bags. The city is revising road-use rules so restaurants can set up outdoor seating while keeping pedestrians safe.

## How is the local brand program different?

The Local Brand Commercial District Development Project focuses on each alley's history, culture and distinctive shops. The aim is to create places visitors want to linger in, offering local food and culture that differ from famous tourist spots.

## For international fans

If you are planning a trip to Seoul, these alleys offer a quieter, more neighborhood-focused side of the city than the main shopping districts. Since the program is still expanding, check local district offices for current event schedules.

## FAQ

### How many areas will Moonlight Outdoor Dining cover by 2028?

Seoul plans to expand the program to 25 sites by 2028, up from six selected districts this year.

### Which areas were chosen for this year's program?

The six districts are Konkuk Mat-ui-geori, Sadang 1-dong Meokja Alley, Sadang Oraks, Changdong Station Shopping Street, Sangbong Meokja Alley and Sinsa Se-ro-su-gil.

### Can foreign tourists store their luggage in these alleys?

Yes. The city plans to install luggage storage lockers in the selected districts for travelers.

## Sources

- [Yonhap News](https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20261016120100004)

_Written and translated with AI from official announcements and Korean media reports. If something is wrong, please let us know._
