The 22nd National Traditional Market Expo, organized by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, was held over three days, from October 9 to 11, at Art Center Goma and the Baekje Cultural Center in Gongju, South Chungcheong Province. First launched in 2004, the expo has become a flagship annual event showcasing outstanding products and achievements from traditional markets and shopping districts across the country. Over the past two decades, more than 2,000 markets and shopping districts have participated, generating approximately USD 21 million in sales and demonstrating the competitiveness and growth potential of traditional markets. At the opening ceremony, Lee So-young, Minister of SMEs and Startups, highlighted the importance of traditional markets, describing them as “vital community spaces that preserve local history and culture while creating new opportunities through the passion and ingenuity of local merchants.”