On September 9, President Yoon Suk-yeol visited Tongin Market near the Blue House, where he held discussions with merchants and citizens about the economic situation in South Korea. During his visit, he emphasized that despite recovering exports and rising stock prices, the actual improvement in the economy should be felt on the ground. He remarked that the perception of the economy's health cannot solely rely on statistical metrics but must resonate with the everyday experiences of citizens.

The President shared a meal at a restaurant in the market, hearing firsthand accounts from the locals. A restaurant owner acknowledged the ongoing economic difficulties yet expressed some hope, recognizing that improvements are slowly being felt due to the government's renewed effort. Meanwhile, a café owner mentioned resilience through challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the relocation of the presidential office, indicating a gradual return of optimism and community activity aimed at revitalizing the market.

Yoon's visit reflects his administration's commitment to understanding the citizens' perspective on economic recovery. He underscored the importance of tangible changes in public sentiment and pledged to respond to the feedback received during his visit. The implications of Yoon's statements suggest a potential shift towards more citizen-focused economic policies that aim to address the discrepancies between statistical reports and lived experiences of the populace.