Why Are Smart Shelters in Seongdong-gu Popular During the Cold Wave?

Surpassing 300,000 Monthly Users in November Last Year, Total 2.09 Million Users in 2023... Operating 53 Locations Amid Continuous Growth, 2 More to Be Added Within the Year

Seongdong-gu (Mayor Jung Won-oh)'s smart resting place, the 'Seongdong-type Smart Shelter,' has now become an indispensable part of the daily lives of Seongdong residents.

As of 2023, the annual number of users has exceeded 2.09 million, marking an increase of more than 10% compared to the previous year. In particular, the number of users in November 2023 surpassed 300,000, and in December, more than 350,000 people used the smart shelters. This means that about 280,000 Seongdong residents visited the smart shelters at least once a month.

The Seongdong-type Smart Shelter primarily serves as a bus stop, but its functions boast cutting-edge technology. It is equipped with ▲ cooling and heating devices to reduce heat waves and cold snaps ▲ ultraviolet air sterilizers and air purifiers to block air pollution ▲ CCTV remote monitoring for crime prevention and deterrence ▲ mobile phone wired and wireless chargers and public Wi-Fi for rest ▲ monitors providing information such as bus arrival times, weather, and fine dust levels.

Regardless of the weather and with excellent accessibility, it serves as a meeting place, a neighborhood community room, and an essential space in daily life. In emergency situations, it also acts as a refuge and evacuation space to protect residents' safety.

In fact, last year, a dating violence case was resolved in cooperation with the police through monitoring of security cameras (CCTV) inside the smart shelter. There have also been cases where elderly dementia patients visiting the smart shelter were found and their families notified, and autistic homeless individuals were assisted in returning home safely.

Functions that actively respond to crises and carefully consider socially vulnerable groups are also notable. In July, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were installed at 12 smart shelters with high foot traffic. In August, hearing loops were installed at 47 locations to assist the hearing impaired.

The convenience of the Seongdong-type Smart Shelter has been widely introduced in overseas media and has spread by word of mouth among actual users. Since its first installation in August 2020, the cumulative number of users has exceeded 5.72 million. A survey conducted over two years among users showed that more than 95% were satisfied. The number of users is expected to continue increasing.

Currently, a total of 53 smart shelters are operating in Seongdong-gu, with two more scheduled to be added in the first half of 2024. Additionally, all smart shelters undergo monthly maintenance inspections to continuously improve any inconveniences and enhance user convenience.

Jung Won-oh, Mayor of Seongdong-gu, said, “Now, many people naturally think of smart shelters when they think of Seongdong-gu. This shows that smart shelters have become essential spaces in residents’ daily lives. I hope they will continue to be loved as safe spaces where people can stop by and rest comfortably and as smart spaces that provide what is needed.” He added, “We will continue to carefully oversee so that all residents can enjoy a more convenient and safe daily life.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.