LOOK: Once bustling Myeongdong in Seoul now a ghost town

It was a feast for the senses when one stepped in the bustling district of Myeongdong in downtown Seoul. Blinding neon signs at night, chatter of shoppers with shopping bags in tow, and the aroma of street food that wafted through the air were what ruled this must-stop for locals and tourists alike.

Today, as the COVID-19 pandemic’s chilling effects continue to grip the world, the once full of life Myeongdong has surrendered to a sepulchral calm—with streets devoid of people, and many much-loved stores and restaurants folding up one by one due to financial constraints.

This shopping mecca was once peppered with mid- to high-end brands that make it alluring to tourists, whom the district heavily relied on. It is also one of Pinoys’ go-to places for pasalubong, especially for skincare products.

Restaurants, cafes and street food also gave character to this district, however, reports say that many of them now operate shortened hours due to lack of customers and foot traffic in the area.

As the world starts to slowly open up, with a glimmer of hope in the horizon following different country’s inoculation drives, will Myeongdong rise from its slumber? With bated breath we wait.