How did Gangnam become a major business district in Seoul?

The development of Gangnam as a major business district is a result of the extensive urban expansion that began in the 1970s. Located south of the Han River, the area was transformed from its original state into a modern hub characterized by high-rise apartment complexes and contemporary office buildings.1

This growth was further catalyzed by the development of key infrastructure, such as Teheran Street, which serves as a central artery for the district. Today, Gangnam functions as a second central business district for Seoul, successfully attracting significant economic activity in sectors including information technology, design, fashion, and tourism. Additionally, the area hosts large department stores and shopping centers, complementing the city's broader economic landscape alongside the traditional markets and financial headquarters found in the northern districts and on Yeoui Island.12