Mapo District-Operated Study Cafe Open Until 2 a.m. Attracts 270,000 Visitors

Only 500 Won a Day for Youth
93% Satisfaction Rate

The study cafe 'Space,' directly operated by Mapo District in Seoul (Mayor Kangsoo Park), has established itself as a learning space for youth by staying open until 2 a.m. Over the past three years, from 2023 to last year, a total of 270,143 people have visited.

Kangsoo Park, Mayor of Mapo District (second from the right in the first row), is attending the 'Mapo Central Library Space Day' event and taking a commemorative photo with students. Provided by Mapo District.

According to Mapo District on January 14, a total of nine 'Space' locations are currently operating as youth study spaces. They are open from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day, with a usage fee of 500 won for youth and 5,000 won for adults. However, Hapjeong Space operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is free of charge.

Equipped with rest areas, these spaces allow youth to study and stay with peace of mind. Their reputation has spread, attracting visitors not only from Mapo but also from neighboring districts.

According to a satisfaction survey conducted in the second half of last year with 115 participants, the overall satisfaction rate was 93%. The intention to continue using the facilities was 96.5%, and 97.4% responded positively about recommending them to others.

High satisfaction was also recorded in detailed categories such as kiosk usage, facility cleanliness, lighting brightness, indoor temperature, and the comfort of tables and chairs, resulting in a positive evaluation of the overall facility management.

A district official stated, "Considering that these spaces are used by youth, we have installed CCTVs and emergency bells, and we also operate a parental notification service to create a safe environment. We will continue to monitor and improve the facilities and operations so that both youth and parents can be even more satisfied."

'Mapo Naru Space,' the first to open in April 2023, is located inside the five-star Hotel Naru, allowing students to study while overlooking the Han River. With a total of 114 seats, it sees an average of 131 daily visitors, exceeding its seating capacity.

'Mapo Central Library Space,' which opened in September 2024, is the most visited among all Space locations in Mapo District. Although it has 100 seats, an average of 152 people use it daily. In particular, its popularity is so high on weekends that it experiences an 'open-run' phenomenon.

Mayor Kangsoo Park stated, "The passion of each and every youth who visits Space is shaping the future of Mapo. I believe it is the district's role to watch over and support them on this journey, and we will continue to do our utmost to make Mapo a place where youth can grow up happily."