TONGYEONG, Sept. 9 (Korea Bizwire) — An abandoned school situated on an island in the picturesque locale of Tongyeong, South Korea, has undergone a remarkable transformation.
Related: Closed School Transformed into Cat Park in Tongyeong, Naples of Asia
This former school has been lovingly repurposed into a welcoming sanctuary for stray cats who had nowhere else to call home.
Tongyeong, often referred to as the “Naples of Asia,” is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and delectable seafood offerings.
In an exciting development, the city of Tongyeong recently announced the commencement of operations at a public cat protection and adoption center.
Inside, you’ll find a shelter and treatment area for stray cats, a charming cat-themed book cafe, and a dedicated space for elderly cats. (Image courtesy of Tongyeong-si)
This innovative initiative has been established within the premises of the former Hansan Elementary School, located in Yongho Island Village, Hansan-myeon.
The center, fondly known as the “cat school,” is a unique undertaking in South Korea, dedicated to the welfare, protection, and adoption of stray felines.
The center has taken up residence in the Yongho branch of the now-defunct Hansan Elementary School, which had ceased operations in 2012 due to dwindling student enrollment.
This historical institution, founded in 1943, remained abandoned for over a decade until it was selected as part of a participatory budgeting project in South Gyeongsang Province.
Under this initiative, the school was lovingly refurbished into a state-of-the-art facility catering to the needs of stray cats.
At present, the center is home to 30 cats rescued from Hallyeohaesang National Park, all of whom are diligently cared for by a dedicated team of three employees.
One of the standout features of this sanctuary is its expansive grounds, allowing the resident cats to frolic freely while gazing out at the serene sea.
The facility boasts a spacious 3,000-square-meter playground and a two-story building spanning 446 square meters. Inside, you’ll find a shelter and treatment area for stray cats, a charming cat-themed book cafe, and a dedicated space for elderly cats.
Moreover, the center provides ample room for the cats to play by the seaside, ensuring they enjoy a fulfilling and joyful life in their newfound home.
Inside, you’ll find a shelter and treatment area for stray cats, a charming cat-themed book cafe, and a dedicated space for elderly cats. (Image provided by the city of Tongyeong)
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
