Seoul's Cheonggyecheon Stream becomes 'urban resort' for heatwave relief

As South Korea grapples with a severe heatwave, the heart of Seoul is offering a unique respite: the Cheonggyecheon Stream has been transformed into a "cooling zone" for citizens seeking relief from the sweltering temperatures.

Until August 9th, the popular urban waterway is operating as an "urban resort," allowing people to cool off by wading in its waters. This initiative provides a much-needed escape from the extreme heat that has gripped the nation, with temperatures soaring to record highs in some regions.

The Cheonggyecheon Stream's transformation into a public cooling space comes at a critical time. The country has reported several heat-related fatalities in recent days, underscoring the severity of the ongoing heatwave. Cities like Gyeongnam Yangsan have recorded temperatures as high as 41.4 degrees Celsius, marking the highest ever recorded in the region's weather history.