South Korean Senior Centers Extend Hours to Serve as Cooling Shelters Amid Heatwave

To combat the dangers posed by a severe heatwave, South Korea is extending the operating hours of more than 6,000 senior centers nationwide, allowing them to function as cooling shelters until 9 p.m. This initiative aims to safeguard the elderly population, who are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures that have already caused a significant increase in heat-related illnesses and deaths.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare, in collaboration with 16 regional governments, has designated 6,363 key senior centers to offer extended services. These centers will now operate daily, including weekends and public holidays, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This is a substantial increase from the usual weekday hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The extended operation is scheduled to continue through the designated heatwave response period, ending on September 30.

While senior centers are typically run for members of the Korea Senior Citizens Association, the extended hours allow any individual aged 65 or older to seek refuge from the heat. This inclusive policy ensures that a broader segment of the elderly population can access these vital cooling facilities during the critical summer months.

First Vice Minister of Health and Welfare, Shin So-yoon, affirmed the ministry's commitment to collaborating with local governments to ensure the well-being of seniors throughout the summer. The measure reflects a proactive approach to public health in the face of escalating climate challenges, prioritizing the safety and comfort of the nation's elderly citizens.

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We will work with local governments to ensure that our seniors can spend the summer healthily.