Kakao Publishes “Magazine Gotgot Gongju” Highlighting Local Shops, Boosting Regional Businesses

[Financial News] Kakao published “Magazine Gotgot Gongju,” which features stories about shops in the Gongju area. The company plans to continue its mutually beneficial initiatives so that visitors experience the region and return, creating a cycle that enables the community to grow independently.
According to industry sources on the 6th, Magazine Gotgot Gongju is a local magazine showcasing the unique character and appeal of shops in Gongju. It introduces distinctive businesses in the city, including Gokmuljip, where visitors can try unusual desserts made from native grains; YUSU Seogo, which curates European vintage items and Korean antiques; and Stranger Than Heaven, which produces honey-fermented liquor that is still unfamiliar in South Korea. The magazine was designed to help readers discover the value of these shops, stay longer in Gongju by following their recommendations, and experience the region’s diverse spaces.
Gotgot is a new mutually beneficial initiative introduced this year under Project Dan-Gol. It aims to encourage visits to local commercial districts and expand connections between small-business owners and customers. Working with local governments, local creators, and small-business owners, the initiative highlights the hidden appeal of neighborhood shops and helps create a virtuous cycle in which visitors experience the region firsthand and return.
The magazine has a limited print run of 2,260 copies. Starting on the 6th, it will be distributed free of charge on a rolling basis at 22 partner locations nationwide, including 10 in Seoul and five in Gongju. Each copy has a unique number to enhance its collectible value. Scanning the QR code in the magazine also allows readers to receive a KakaoTalk digital card for “Magazine Gotgot Gongju.” Key content from the magazine will also be published on Magazine Gotgot’s Brunch page so that anyone can access it online.
The offline event “Gotgot Stroll” will take place around Jemincheon in Gongju starting on the 16th. Visitors can experience the shops and spaces featured in the magazine and participate in events.
Visitors can explore Gongju along the “Gotgot Stroll Trail,” which connects local shops and attractions. They can search for “Gotgot Stroll Trail Gongju” on Kakao Map or use the themed map to view the route and specific locations. Kakao also plans to promote the trail through banner advertising on Kakao Map.
A range of participatory programs has also been prepared, including “Magazine Talk,” which presents the stories of Gongju featured in the magazine through conversations; the “Local Docent Tour,” which takes visitors around local attractions and shops with a professional guide; and “Stroll Bingo,” in which participants visit 12 designated locations and collect KakaoTalk digital cards. 
“Atelier Week,” sponsored by Kakao and featuring the direct participation of local small-business owners, will also be held. It will offer a variety of programs, including flea markets, one-day classes, small gatherings, and exhibitions.
After the event, Kakao plans to share program planning and operating know-how with local governments and local creators. It will also provide marketing resources, including the facilities and supplies used for the event, free of charge. The company aims to help local stakeholders use these resources to continue organizing their own promotional activities and events.
[email protected] Jang Min-kwon Reporter