Development of Chinese enclaves in the Seoul-Incheon metropolitan area, South Korea

Ethnic enclaves are emerging in the Seoul metropolitan areas. Some ethnic enclaves have been developed to become tourist spots while others have evolved into semi-slums. This study examines how Chinese enclaves have evolved in relation to the provisions of government policy and the demands of natives towards the enclaves. This study compares three major Chinese enclaves: one that has become an official Chinatown, one that struggled to become a Chinatown and one that is at risk of disappearing. The comparison shows that the development process and the outcome of ethnic enclaves are sensitive to city planning strategies and the socio-economic demand of native communities. These factors can mould new identities and spatial characteristics of ethnic enclaves.