Rumors That Are Circulating Mention That SM Entertainment Will Move The Location Of SMTOWN Tourism Objects Outside of Seoul City. Netizens Give Pro Pros and Cons.
SMTOWN COEX Artium opened in July 2015 and is a tourist attraction for all fans of SM Entertainment artists to visit and buy merchandise, albums and even meet their idols. Rumors are circulating that SM will move its location outside of Seoul.
Recently a number of photos circulating showing the building allegedly the new location of SMTOWN. The building has not been officially opened yet so there are no complete photos.
It is said that the building has 4 floors underground and 10 floors, twice that of COEX Artium. They will have official goods stores, "experience" rooms, concert venues, convention centers and hotels.
The announcement of the "FY2020 2Q Preview" released made many netizens believe that it seemed that SM's contract with COEX Artium was over. There are rumors about them moving SMTOWN to Changdong Arena. But they haven't even started construction in Changdong yet and it feels like it will take several years to complete.
Changdong Arena is supposed to be finished by 2024. It makes netizens wonder if they will use Changwon to view around the new SMTOWN building. It will be right next to the Changwon bus terminal so it is suitable for people who live in the suburbs.
But the spotlight of netizens, Seoul is about 4 hours drive from Changwon. Many complain that SM really moved SMTOWN there.
"Access to this place sucks and I'm not even a fan of SM."
"They only have events in Seoul so people in the suburbs always have to travel to Seoul, they can finally feel our pain."
"Oh yes, finally Seoul fans will know what it's like to spend 50 thousand won (around Rp. 600 thousand) for a train ticket."
"Looks like they gave up on location."
"But nothing can be done in Changwon."
"I'm a fan of Busan and I expect them to move to Busan, but why Changwon?"
"Changwon is not considered a suburb, it can still be accessed by train."
"No, they can't close COEX Artium. I won't go far."
"Hmmm SMTOWN at COEX is smart because there are lots of people every day and they can advertise SM artists at the same time."
Meanwhile, last week SM Entertainment announced that the SMTOWN COEX Artium was closed for two days, May 8-9. Not yet known what causes it, but many fans suspect it is because of cockroaches.
