Eight Gwangjin District Libraries to Operate as Cold Wave Shelters Through March

Winter Cultural Promotion Campaign
"Libraries Are Hot" Launched

Gwangjin District in Seoul (District Mayor Kim Kyungho) has designated eight public libraries within the district as cold wave shelters and will operate them until March 15, 2026.

The public libraries designated as cold wave shelters are Gwangjin Information Library, Jayang Hangang Library, Junggok Culture and Sports Center Library, Jayang 4-dong Library, Guui 3-dong Library, Gunja-dong Library, Achasan Forest Library, and Gwangjin Children's Library, totaling eight locations.

Communication tour at Gwangjin Information Library. Provided by Gwangjin District.

The shelters utilize reading rooms and reference rooms within the libraries, opening between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. on weekdays and operating until as late as 10 p.m. They are also open on weekends. Detailed operating hours and closed days for each library can be checked on the Gwangjin Public Library website. Visitors can read books or rest in a warm environment, and cold weather supplies such as hot packs and blankets are also provided.

Alongside the operation of the cold wave shelters, the district is launching a winter cultural promotion campaign called "Libraries Are Hot." The campaign is designed to reduce the burden of home heating and minimize the use of heating devices, with the goal of expanding libraries into warm shelters and cultural spaces for the community.

This campaign, which runs through February, is open to everyone. Anyone can participate by uploading a photo of their visit via the QR code on posters inside the libraries; selected participants will receive a fan merchandise bag. In addition, each library in the district will offer a variety of programs such as lectures, performances, and hands-on experiences. Detailed schedules and application information are available on the Gwangjin Public Library website.

Kim Kyungho, Mayor of Gwangjin District, stated, "Libraries are spaces where anyone can read and relax, so we have designated them as cold wave shelters to help residents escape the harsh winter cold. I hope everyone enjoys a warm winter by experiencing the various programs offered at our libraries."