"Elderly People Searching for Tapgol Park with Closed Gates Wondering 'Where Should We Go?'"

The heatwave is in full swing. Elderly people are cooling off near Tapgol Park in Jongno-gu, Seoul, where access is restricted to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

Elderly people are seeking shelter from the heat in front of Tapgol Park in Jongno-gu, Seoul, where access is prohibited. Photo by Mun Ho-nam munonam@

Elderly people are gathered near Tapgol Park, chatting together. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

Although the spread of COVID-19 continues, elderly people who cannot endure the heat are coming out onto the streets. With the social distancing level raised to Stage 4, the operation of social welfare facilities has been reduced, and most free meal centers have closed to prevent the spread of infection. Tapgol Park, which was closed on February 20 last year, has not reopened even after more than a year and four months. However, the area near the park is still crowded with elderly people vulnerable to the heatwave. We have gathered scenes of elderly people who have lost their places of rest.

An elderly person is crouching near Tapgol Park. Photo by Mun Ho-nam munonam@

An elderly person is reading a newspaper near Tapgol Park. Photo by Mun Ho-nam munonam@

Elderly people are fanning themselves to cool off near Tapgol Park. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

Empty alcohol bottles are scattered near Tapgol Park. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

A notice prohibiting entry to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is posted at Tapgol Park. Tapgol Park, which was closed on February 20 last year, has not reopened even after more than a year and four months. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

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