Seoul bans drinking at Seoul Station Plaza in new alcohol-free zone
Violators will face a 50,000 won fine once a grace period ends on Feb. 28, and officials will run campaigns during the transition.
Seoul's Jung and Yongsan ward offices designated Seoul Station Plaza a no-drinking zone starting Monday, South Korea's national news agency Yonhap reported.
The ward offices, which jointly oversee the area, said an outdoor space of about 20,000 square meters around Seoul Station is now alcohol-free.
People who break the rule will be fined 50,000 won ($37) after a grace period ends on Feb. 28, officials said.
Officials cited concerns and complaints that homeless people drinking on the plaza were causing discomfort to passersby.
The plaza has long been one of the main gathering spots in Seoul for homeless people, where free meals are also offered, and passersby have often complained about rowdy drinking, even during the daytime.
During the grace period, local authorities plan to install directional signs and banners around the plaza.
Authorities also plan on-site promotional campaigns to encourage people to comply voluntarily, officials said.
Later on Monday, ward office officials, police and the national train operator Korea Railroad Corp. will jointly host a campaign and hand out leaflets to inform citizens of the new policy.
Seoul Station is a major rail hub in central Seoul, and the new rule covers only the designated outdoor area around it.