Jungnang District Extends "Jungnang Ongdalsaem" Outdoor Bottled Water Shelter Operation Until the 21st

Jungnang District in Seoul (Mayor Ryu Kyunggi) has extended the operation of its outdoor heat shelter, "Jungnang Ongdalsaem," by three days until August 21 to respond to the ongoing heatwave. The shelter was originally scheduled to operate from July 15 to August 18, but the decision was made to extend the period due to the continued heatwave in mid-August and the growing need to protect residents.

On the 17th, Ryu Kyunggi, mayor of Jungnang District (center), together with the caretaker of Jungnang Ongdalsaem. Provided by Jungnang District.

"Jungnang Ongdalsaem" is an outdoor bottled water shelter introduced in 2021 to help prevent heat-related illnesses and provide a place for residents to rest during the summer. Last year, approximately 480,000 bottles of water were distributed, reflecting high resident satisfaction and making it a leading example of Jungnang District's heatwave response measures.

The shelters are located in nine high-traffic areas, including the Bonghwasan and Yongmasan walking trails and along the Jungnangcheon Stream, and are open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Each refrigerator is stocked with around 240 bottles of water five times a day. The supply volume is flexibly adjusted according to weather conditions and demand.

The district has emphasized environmentally friendly operations by using label-free eco-friendly bottled water and installing dedicated recycling bins. In addition, on-site volunteers known as "Saemjigi" are assigned to manage the shelters and provide user guidance, helping to maintain a comfortable environment.

Ryu Kyunggi, mayor of Jungnang District, stated, "As the hot summer continues, I hope Jungnang Ongdalsaem will serve as a small shelter to protect the health of our residents," adding, "We will do our best to ensure everyone enjoys a healthy and safe summer through a variety of heatwave response policies."

Meanwhile, Jungnang District is implementing a wide range of heatwave response measures, including installing 181 shade structures, designating 150 heat shelters, operating smart shelters and cooling fog systems, providing home health care for vulnerable groups, protecting the homeless, expanding street cleaning with water, and safeguarding outdoor workers.