The Seoul municipal government said Tuesday it has pressed large retailers to cut operating hours as part of a nationwide drive to protect smaller businesses and promote joint economic growth.
In a policy recommendation to the city's 25 local district offices, the municipal government said it asked for retail giants to close their shops twice a month, on Sundays or public holidays, and limit their operation between 12 a.m. and 8 a.m.
Currently, 292 out of a total of 331 discount store chains and super-supermarkets (SSMs) in Seoul, or 88 percent, open every day of the year, with 33 stores operating around the clock.
Critics have pointed out, however, that the local offices will not be able to enforce the recommendation without a relevant enacting ordinance.
"If each autonomous district begins now to push for a revision to the relevant ordinance, the recommendation should be achievable by May," said a city official who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We will continue to guide each local district office to faithfully implement the recommendation while promoting it to citizens as well."
The nationwide move has faced fierce opposition from large retailers and some consumer groups who argue it is an infringement of their rights. (Yonhap)