Yangcheon District to Rebuild and Open Senior Centers Over 30 Years Old in Sinwol-dong and Beyond for the Super-Aging Era

Comprehensive Renovation and Elevator Installation Enhance Convenience
Expansion and Reconstruction of 13 Aging Senior Centers Underway

Yangcheon District in Seoul (District Mayor Lee Gijae) will completely renovate and reopen three senior centers-Singok, Gyeongbok, and Handu-that were originally built over 30 years ago. The district announced on December 12 that opening ceremonies will be held for Singok Senior Center (Sinwol 2-dong) on the 16th of this month, Gyeongbok Senior Center (Sinwol 3-dong) on the 18th, and Handu Senior Center (Mok 3-dong) on the 22nd.

From the left, the newly built Singok, Handu, and Gyeongbok Senior Center. Provided by Yangcheon District.

This project goes beyond simple remodeling; instead, the outdated and cramped senior centers, which were in urgent need of improvement due to the increasing elderly population in this era of super-aging, have been completely rebuilt after demolishing the existing structures.

The new senior centers are organized with a community room (kitchen and program room) on the first floor, a grandmothers’ room on the second floor, and a grandfathers’ room on the third floor. The addition of an extra floor, reconfiguration of interior spaces, and installation of elevators have enhanced convenience and safety. The centers also feature exterior designs that reflect the surrounding environment, as well as unique nameplates and signboards for each center, adding a sophisticated touch.

A smart senior center system will also be introduced. The centers will offer digital welfare services such as remote singing and exercise programs via video platforms, and blood pressure and body composition management using IoT-based facial recognition devices.

Since 2022, the district has been promoting expansion and reconstruction projects for 13 aging senior centers. Construction of Wolseong Senior Center (Sinwol 1-dong) was completed last year, while Dangok (Sinwol 2-dong), Geumsil (Sinwol 7-dong), Yangmok (Sinjeong 4-dong), Namal (Mok 3-dong), and Cheongsol (Sinjeong 4-dong) are scheduled for completion next year.

Lee Gijae, Mayor of Yangcheon District, stated, “I hope this renovation will help our seniors enjoy a more vibrant and healthy later life,” adding, “As senior centers are both the hub of social activities and an important part of daily life for the elderly, we will do our utmost to provide a comfortable and safe environment.”