Seoul maps out tricky market alleys with 3D address overhaul

A traditional market in Mangwon-dong, Mapo District, western Seoul. Korea Times file

The Seoul Metropolitan Government said Monday that it is expanding its high-tech "3D spatial addressing" initiative to six major traditional markets across the capital, mapping out thousands stalls to improve navigation, logistics and emergency responses.

The ambitious project will convert a combined 200,000 square meters of notoriously complex market layouts into high-precision 3D digital data using cutting-edge technologies, including the Global Navigation Satellite System and LiDAR. Roughly 2,500 individual stalls across six key commercial hubs — including Donghwa Market, Guro Market, Mapo Agriculture & Marine Products Market and the Garak Mall sales building — will receive precise, institutionalized 3D addresses.

The digital upgrade aims to eliminate chronic navigation challenges in traditional shopping districts, which have historically relied on unofficial storefront numbers or vague, landmark-based directions. By integrating this newly generated spatial data directly into Korea’s premier navigation platforms — including TMAP, Naver Maps and Kakao Maps — visitors and delivery couriers will be able to access detailed routes. The system will guide them directly to specific stalls, optimized loading zones and nearby parking infrastructure, effectively preventing delivery vehicles from blocking narrow alleyways.

Crucially, the initiative doubles as a vital public safety upgrade.

Expanding on a pilot program launched last year in the Cheongnyangni market area, the city is logging the exact physical coordinates of critical life-saving equipment. This includes automated external defibrillators, main gas shutoff valves, electrical distribution boards and fire extinguishers.

This comprehensive dataset will be shared with the Seoul Metropolitan Fire & Disaster Headquarters and uploaded to S-Map, the city's proprietary 3D digital twin platform. In the event of a fire or medical emergency, first responders will no longer have to decipher vague descriptions like "next to the central fish stall." Instead, digital maps will instantly pinpoint the location and plot the fastest tactical route through dense crowds.

"This 3D addressing initiative goes far beyond basic map-making; it is a practical, everyday spatial policy designed to enhance public safety and convenience," said Kang Ok-hyun, director general of Seoul’s Digital City Bureau. "We will continue leveraging digital technology to eliminate safety blind spots across our traditional markets."

This article was published with the assistance of generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.