The agreement aims to uncover and commercialize standout local foods. Both the district and BGF Retail say they’ll actively collaborate to boost the local economy and create a model of shared growth between the community and businesses.
In June, the district will host the “Dongjak Bread Contest” to choose a bread that represents the area. BGF Retail plans to commercialize some of the winning entries and roll them out at CU stores nationwide.
Any local bakery—or even individual bakers—can enter. Judges will look for local relevance, a compelling story, creativity and, of course, great taste when selecting the bread that best embodies Dongjak.
The convenience-store versions of the winning breads are expected to hit shelves around September, timed with the “Dongjak Bread-dong Festival.”
The festival began last year after a proposal from young locals. With exhibits, sales, hands-on activities and live performances, it quickly became Dongjak’s signature celebration.
This year, the official release of the district’s representative bread will strengthen the festival’s food offerings, making the event even more vibrant and diverse, officials say.
Mayor Park Il-ha called the agreement “a meaningful starting point to discover foods that tell Dongjak’s story, raise our local brand and build a shared-growth model between the district and businesses. I hope the Dongjak signature bread launching in September becomes a new symbol that spotlights our community.”
