"350 Seoul Kids OK Zones Designated Welcoming Guests with Children"

Starting from the 13th, Smart Seoul Map Store Information Provided
Designated Restaurants Equipped with Chairs and Supplies for Children
Goal to Expand to 700 Locations by 2026

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] The Seoul Metropolitan Government will designate 350 restaurants and cafes as 'Seoul Kids OK Zones,' where parents visiting with children can feel comfortable using the facilities.

On the 1st, Seoul announced that it will designate 'Seoul Kids OK Zones' through voluntary applications from restaurants and cafes, and plans to expand the number to 700 locations by 2026. Starting from the 13th, information about designated stores will be provided on the Smart Seoul Map.

Seoul Kids OK Zones refer to restaurants and cafes equipped with child-friendly chairs, utensils such as spoons and forks, menus suitable for children, and a certain area size (recommended at least 80㎡). Stores designated as Seoul Kids OK Zones will have certification stickers attached to clearly indicate that they welcome children.

The city is promoting the Seoul Kids OK Zone project as part of the 'Mom and Dad Happiness Project,' established last August to reduce childcare burdens on caregivers and foster a social atmosphere that respects child-rearing.

To encourage participation from restaurants and other establishments, the city actively informed food industry organizations and franchise cafes about the purpose of the 'Seoul Kids OK Zone.' On the 22nd of last month, Seoul signed business agreements with the Korea Foodservice Industry Association, Korea Rest Stop Foodservice Association, Lotte GRS, and others.

Kim Seon-soon, Director of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Women and Family Policy Office, said, "It is unfortunate that the increase of no-kids zones, which restrict entry of customers accompanied by children, psychologically discourages caregivers and limits outings with children. We will continue to promote the 'Seoul Kids OK Zone' project through voluntary participation of restaurants and cafes to create a Seoul that is more child-friendly."