Seoul's new urban policy: guaranteed shade on daily walks
The Seoul Metropolitan Government pledged Wednesday to make "the right to shade" an urban policy principle throughout the capital, guaranteeing shielded pedestrian routes amid record heat waves. The concept treats access to cooling as a public service for all, not a privilege determined by geography in an era of extreme heat. After running a pilot program in 10 areas next year, Seoul plans to…
Seoul's new urban policy aims to guarantee shade for residents during daily walks, addressing the growing threat of heat waves. The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced its commitment to treat access to cooling as a public service for all citizens, rather than a privilege determined by location.
The plan, which will be tested in 10 areas next year, aims to expand citywide starting in 2028. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that heat waves are no longer temporary inconveniences but routine disasters threatening lives and safety.
While the city has expanded green spaces through its Garden City Seoul initiative, the mayor emphasized that the right to shade is the next step in connecting those spaces for residents' homes to their destinations. He explained that shade will no longer be available only in select locations but will become a basic urban service protecting residents' health and daily lives.
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- Seoul's new urban policy: guaranteed shade on daily walks koreatimes.co.kr
