Alleyways between urban renewal, cultural innovation, and social integration : The cases of Tokyo and Seoul

Abstract

In times of globalization, ordinary places are increasingly contested and fragmented urban experiences, resulting in these places being left behind yet rediscovered, excluded yet revived, forgotten yet remembered. This chapter explores alleyway networks in contemporary Tokyo and Seoul, focusing on the roji (路地) and the golmok (골목) and the experiences of the people who make use of these places, to offer an in-depth, sociological portrait of these two contested cities. Providing multiple narratives of urban change and renewal, the chapter questions the future of the alleyways, its new actors, and its new possibilities, arguing that extraordinary cities should reconsider ordinary places to develop sustainable and inclusive urban areas.