SEOUL, July 6 (Korea Bizwire) — ’Seoripool cooling chairs,’ also referred to as “air conditioning chairs,” are gaining attention as they offer relief to residents of Seocho District who wait for buses during scorching summer days.
On July 6, Seocho District in Seoul announced a range of measures to enhance the quality of life in preparation for the summer heatwave, one of which includes the installation of Seoripool cooling chairs.
Seocho District boasts an exceptional level of residential satisfaction, ranking as the top “most livable neighborhood” among Seoul’s autonomous districts, surpassing Gangnam District. Notably, the area places great emphasis on the health of its residents and holds the highest rank in the country in terms of public health initiatives.
To ensure residents can wait for buses in a cooler environment even amidst sweltering temperatures, Seocho District is expanding the number of Seoripool cooling chairs at bus stops. The total count will be 31 locations, which is 20 more than last year.
These chairs are equipped with a specially designed temperature controller that automatically adjusts the cooling and heating system based on the external temperature. ‘Seoripool’ is a Korean term referring to Seocho.
When the temperature exceeds 28 degrees, the cooling chair’s top automatically cools down to provide comfort. Additionally, a total of 169 ‘covered cooling chairs’ will be installed at other bus stop seats, featuring low thermal conductivity covers that can reduce the temperature by approximately 5 degrees.
The renowned ‘Seoripool shade’ structures unique to Seocho District, which have gained popularity nationwide, will also see expansion. These structures will be set up in front of crosswalks and on traffic islands, with a total of 232 locations, 10 more than previously.
Indoor heat shelters for the elderly will be available at 102 locations, an increase of seven from last year. These shelters, frequently utilized by individuals, will be equipped with state-of-the-art air circulators.
Moreover, the district aims to minimize the impact of heat on vulnerable populations. It will proactively reach out to the elderly living alone through safety texts, phone calls, and visits, providing them with heat preparation tips and health advice.
The Smart Safety Check System, utilizing IoT devices to monitor indoor temperatures and movements, and the Health Care Visits to the Elderly Living Alone Program will also be implemented.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)