Seoul opens 'climate shelters' for rest during extreme weather

By Han Jun-gu Posted : January 8, 2026, 17:59 Updated : January 8, 2026, 18:23
A Climate Companion Shelter sticker is seen at a Shinhan Bank branch in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Jan. 8, 2026. AJP Han Jun-gu

SEOUL, January 08 (AJP) - Seoul has rolled out a network of “Climate Companion Shelters” to protect residents from extreme weather, offering rest and evacuation spaces during cold waves and heat waves.

The program aims to reduce weather-related health risks by providing easily accessible refuges across the city.

The city has established 450 shelters in partnership with the private sector, focusing on facilities commonly used in daily life, including convenience stores, banks and mobile phone retail outlets. The locations include 34 convenience stores, 192 Shinhan Bank branches and 224 KT retail stores.

Residents can enter the facilities during normal business hours to warm up or cool down, or to take a short break. Some locations also offer seasonal amenities, such as hand warmers during winter and umbrellas during the rainy summer months.
 
A Climate Companion Shelter sticker is seen at a Shinhan Bank branch in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Jan. 8, 2026. AJP Han Jun-gu
 
A Climate Companion Shelter sticker is seen at a KT mobile phone store in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Jan. 8, 2026. AJP Han Jun-gu

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