Geumcheon-gu Opens Largest Seoul-type Kids Cafe

Geumcheon-gu will open a new public indoor play facility — the "Seoul-type Kids Cafe Geumcheon-gu Siheung 2-dong Norideul" — on Monday, giving children a safe place to play regardless of fine dust, heat waves or cold snaps.

The Norideul branch is the third Seoul-type Kids Cafe in Geumcheon-gu, built to serve children and families in the Siheung 2-dong area, which had lacked adequate indoor play spaces. The facility has drawn strong interest from residents, particularly given the shortage of indoor playgrounds and private kids cafes nearby.

The facility occupies the third floor of the Junimanante Jeil Church building in Siheung 2-dong, using space provided free of charge by the church foundation.

At 584.2 square meters of total floor area, the Norideul branch is larger than Geumcheon-gu's first and second Seoul-type Kids Cafe locations. The age range has also been expanded to children ages 3 through 8, making it accessible to toddlers and early elementary school students alike.

The interior is designed with children's activity levels in mind, featuring a variety of play zones that stimulate all five senses and encourage physical movement.

The centerpiece is a large net climbing structure installed at the heart of the facility. Designed with vivid colors and a three-dimensional layout, it lets children climb, cross and explore — building physical ability and a sense of accomplishment along the way.

Other themed play areas include a "digilog playground" blending analog and digital content, as well as kitchen play and fishing play zones where children can develop imagination and social skills through role play. A dedicated space for parents and children to interact together ensures families can enjoy quality time side by side.

In addition, a separate room for hands-on programs and educational activities will allow the facility to operate as a multifaceted play space that goes beyond simple recreation to offer diverse experiences and learning opportunities.

The Norideul branch will be open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is 3,000 won ($2.20) per child. Reservations can be made in advance through the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Woori Dongne Kium Portal.

"I hope Norideul will be a safe playground where children can run and play freely, and a reliable care space that eases the burden on parents," Geumcheon-gu District Mayor Yoo Sung-hoon said. "We will continue to expand public childcare infrastructure that combines play and care."