Gwangjin District Takes Proactive Measures with Heatwave Mitigation Facilities

Early Operation of Heatwave Mitigation Facilities Such as Shade Canopies, Smart Shelters, and Cooling Fog Starting in April
Cold Bottled Water Provided at Parks and Hiking Trail Entrances to Quench Residents' Thirst

Gwangjin District (District Mayor Kim Kyungho) has started operating its heatwave mitigation facilities earlier than in previous years, beginning in early April, in order to proactively respond to the increasingly early onset of summer heatwaves each year.

This is a preventive measure aimed at blocking potential damage to residents caused by heatwaves in advance and preparing for a safer summer.

Currently, Gwangjin District operates a variety of heatwave response facilities, including 18 smart shelters, 239 shade canopies, and 5 cooling fog installations. In particular, the shade canopies began operation on April 2, and the smart shelters, after a brief pause following the cold season, started full-scale cooling functions from April 21.

Heatwave mitigation facilities have typically operated from May to September each year. However, this year, in order to prevent heat-related illnesses caused by the intense heat, the district completed inspections and repairs in advance and began operating the facilities earlier, starting in April.

In addition, the district plans to complete the installation of cooling fog systems at Jayang Traditional Market and Norunsan Alley Market in May, aiming to help residents visiting traditional markets enjoy a more comfortable environment and to contribute to the protection of their health. Furthermore, this year, the district will add 19 more shade canopies in addition to the existing ones, supporting residents so they can move safely even during the heat.

Moreover, following last year, the district will operate the 'Gwangjin Saengsuteo' from the end of June through August, during the peak heat period. Gwangjin Saengsuteo is a designated area where cold bottled water is provided at key locations such as parks and hiking trail entrances, allowing residents to quench their thirst and cool down at any time.

Kim Kyungho, Mayor of Gwangjin District, stated, "As heatwaves intensify due to climate change, we are doing our utmost to expand and systematically operate heatwave mitigation facilities to protect the health and safety of our residents," adding, "We will continue to make every effort to ensure that residents can spend the hot summer safely."