Abandoned red-light district and adjacent neighbourhood in northern Seoul, South Korea

In a backstreet area of northern Seoul, there is a small semi-active red-light district that will be demolished in the next few years. The area consists of narrow alleys lined with small, one-room structures—some with tinted or curtained windows, others boarded up. Most of the establishments are inactive, though a few still appear to be operating.

The atmosphere is quiet during the day, and there is little foot traffic except for occasional passersby or residents. In one instance, an elderly woman approached (the only person I saw there) and directly asked if I was there for sex. After I said no, she told me to leave, suggesting a level of territorialism or suspicion toward outsiders who are not there for business.

The surrounding neighborhood is mixed-use and undergoing noticeable redevelopment. Older low-rise buildings and small businesses like auto repair shops and convenience stores are being replaced or overshadowed by new apartment complexes. Banners advertising reconstruction or redevelopment projects are visible, which is consistent with broader urban renewal trends across Seoul. Unfortunately, I could not get into any of the houses.

Overall, the area reflects a transitional phase—where remnants of past informal economies remain, but are clearly being phased out in favor of modern residential and commercial development.

This video is not intended to offend or ridicule Korea or its people. As with my other urban exploration content, the goal is to document spaces that are often hidden, overlooked, or in transition—regardless of how uncomfortable or sensitive they may be. The intention is to preserve a visual record of these places before they disappear, not to pass judgment on Korea or its people. Every major city on Earth has an area known for its sex trade, so to look at this video and pass judgment on Korea or its people would be hypocritical.