[영어듣기] 쇼핑의 중심지 명동 / 한글자막 |한국여행/문화/역사가이드

The streets of Myeong-dong are always crowded with shoppers, couples, office workers, and tourists. Popular fashion brands, famous Korean cosmetics stores, and great tasting food can be found here.
The modernization of Myeong-dong began in the 1920s. With Cheonggye Stream dividing the city, the people of Joseon settled north of the stream while the Japanese settled south of the stream. Located south of Cheonggyecheon, Myeong-dong was developed into a commercial district by Japanese residents.
In 1945 (the year Korea gained independence from Japan), plenty of small theatres opened up, thereby attracting many actors, musicians and artists to the area. The coffee shops and bars were frequented by artists discussing and sharing their talents, eventually making Myeong-dong the center of Korean arts and culture.
In the 1960s, redevelopment took place and all the coffee shops and theaters were replaced by commercial stores, making Myeong-dong the main shopping district that it is today.
Today, shopping malls, cosmetics stores, currency exchange stalls, coffee shops and restaurants can be found all around UNESCO Street, Myeong-dong 8-gil Street, Quan Chen Ru Street and the other major streets of Myeong-dong. Between 5pm and 11 pm, the streets become even more livelier with street performances and street vendors.