District authorities in central Seoul are stepping up crowd control and safety inspections across Namdaemun Market, where a social media phenomenon has driven an unprecedented influx of foreign tourists and young domestic shoppers into the historic commercial district. Jung District Office said Monday that it has intensified monitoring and field patrols across the expansive open-air market to manage heavy foot traffic, remove physical hazards blocking narrow corridors and position safety marshals during peak shopping hours. Long known as one of Korea's premier traditional markets, Namdaemun is seeing renewed popularity among younger shoppers and international visitors seeking bargains. The recent surge in congestion has centered largely around Hanyangsa, a small shop selling scarves whose proprietor gained widespread online fame for his witty sales pitch. The resulting influx of onlookers and buyers briefly forced the merchant to suspend operations due to severe crowding. In response to potential safety hazards in the market's tight alleyways, district officials met with local shop owner