[Edaily Reporter Lee So-Hyun ] Kakao(035720)is expanding “Project Regular,” which has supported the digital transformation of small business owners, into an offline mutual growth initiative designed to encourage visits to and spending in local communities. Gongju, South Chungcheong Province, has been selected as the first region for this initiative, which will link a local magazine, walking trails, and experiential programs to broaden the points of contact between local shops and visitors.

Kakao announced on the 6th that it has launched “Ggotggot,” a new mutual growth initiative aimed at revitalizing local commercial districts, and published “Magazine Ggotggot Gongju”—featuring stories about local shops in Gongju—as its first project.

“Ggotggot” is a new mutual growth initiative launched as an extension of “Project Regular,” which Kakao has been operating since 2022. While previous efforts focused on digital transformation training for small business owners and expanding their online customer reach, this initiative places greater emphasis on promoting the unique charm of the region itself and encouraging actual visits in collaboration with local governments, local creators, and small business owners.

A Local Magazine Featuring Stories of Gongju Shops

“Magazine Ggotggot Gongju” features stories about Gongju’s distinctive shops and small business owners.

It introduces places such as “Gokmuljip,” which makes desserts using native grains; “Yuso Seogo,” which showcases European vintage items and Korean antique art; and “Stranger Than Heaven,” which produces honey-fermented liquor—all designed to guide readers through various local spaces as they explore these shops.

A limited run of 2,260 copies of the magazine will be published. Free distribution will begin today and proceed sequentially at 22 partner locations nationwide—including 10 in Seoul, 5 in Gongju, and others in Daejeon, Mokpo, Gwangju, Daegu, and Busan.

Each magazine has been assigned a unique number, and scanning the QR code inside allows readers to receive a “Magazine Everywhere Gongju” KakaoTalk digital card. Key content will also be published on the “Magazine Everywhere” Brunch platform so it can be viewed online.

Explore the “Gogok Walking Trail” with KakaoMap

The offline event “Gogogok Stroll” will take place starting on the 16th in the area around Jeomin Stream in Gongju.

Visitors can explore Gongju by following the “Gogogok Walking Trail,” which connects local shops and attractions. You can search for “Gogogok Walking Trail Gongju” on KakaoMap or check the course and specific locations via the themed map.

Kakao will also promote the walking trail through banner ads on Kakao Maps.

Programs designed to let visitors experience the region firsthand have also been organized. These include “Magazine Talk,” where stories about Gongju featured in the magazine are discussed in a panel format; “Local Docent Tours,” which allow participants to explore local shops and attractions with professional guides; and “Stroll Bingo,” where participants collect KakaoTalk digital cards by visiting 12 designated locations.

Participants in “Walking Bingo” will receive gifts and benefits based on their progress in collecting cards.

Even after the event ends, the region will continue to operate

“Atelier Week,” sponsored by Kakao and featuring local small business owners, will also be held concurrently. The event will showcase flea markets, one-day classes, small gatherings, and exhibitions.

Advance reservations for some programs are available starting today via KakaoTalk’s “Reserve” feature.

Kakao plans to continue sharing its expertise in program planning and operation with local governments and creators even after the event concludes, and will provide marketing resources—such as the facilities and supplies used during the event—free of charge. This is to ensure that the initiative does not end as a one-time event, but rather enables local stakeholders to independently continue promoting and running programs.

Yang Hyun-seo, Kakao’s Win-Win Business Performance Leader, stated, “The stories and charm of local shops throughout the region are valuable assets that draw people to visit,” adding, “We will continue our win-win initiatives to create a cycle where visitors experience the region and return, enabling the region to grow on its own.”