Geumcheon District Operates 19 "Warming Centers" at Crosswalks and Bus Stops

Eight New Warming Centers Added for Cold Wave Protection
Standalone Unit Piloted at Crosswalk Intersection

Geumcheon District in Seoul (District Mayor Yoo Seonghun) has installed “warming centers” at 19 crosswalk intersections and bus stops to protect residents from the winter cold. These warming centers provide a temporary shelter from the cold while waiting for the bus or for the traffic signal.

Local residents are using the warming center to escape the cold. Provided by Geumcheon District.

The district expanded the number of warming centers from 11 last year to a total of 19 this year by adding 8 new locations. This year, a standalone warming center was installed on a trial basis at the Sihung Sageori crosswalk intersection. Reflecting the long signal wait times at this intersection, the facility was designed to improve accessibility for vulnerable groups such as seniors and people with disabilities.

The warming centers are located at major hubs with high pedestrian traffic, such as Gasan Digital Complex Station, Doksan Station, and Geumcheon District Office Station. The facilities include 7 standalone units, 10 attached units, and 1 window-type unit.

The warming centers are made of polycarbonate material to enhance insulation and durability. After the winter season, they can be dismantled, stored, and reinstalled, making them both functional and environmentally friendly. For the new installations this year, the length of the door handles was adjusted to make the facilities easily accessible for children and people with disabilities.

The district conducts regular weekly inspections and ad-hoc maintenance to ensure safe operation. Key inspection items include checking for damage, pedestrian accessibility, and the safety of the surrounding area.

Yoo Seonghun, Mayor of Geumcheon District, stated, “We are expanding the operation of warming centers so that residents can take shelter from the cold while waiting at crosswalks or for buses during the harsh winter,” adding, “We will continue to pay close attention to environments vulnerable to cold waves and do our utmost to ensure winter safety management.”