Gwangjin-gu, led by District Mayor Kim Gyeong-ho, is launching full operation of its water play areas and ground fountains to give residents a cool urban escape from the heat without having to travel far from home.
A total of nine water facilities will be in operation this year — four water play areas and five ground fountains — offering a range of aquatic amenities for the whole family, from children to seniors.
The district's most popular outdoor water play areas have been opening in succession. The Ttukseom Han River Park pool and water play area led the way on June 19, followed by the Jungnangcheon water play area on June 23 and the Guui Park water play area on July 1. The Gwangjin-gu Children's Water Play Area (in front of the open stage at Children's Grand Park) is set to open July 18, bringing the total to four outdoor water play areas in full operation across the district.
Ground fountains — a perennial favorite with children — are also shooting cool jets of water at locations throughout the district.
The district is running five ground fountains all at once: Gwangjin Sunnaru, Gwangjin Plaza, Kondae Fountain Plaza, Yakchowon Neighborhood Park and Naru Arts Center. Each fountain operates two to three times daily on a set schedule, offering a refreshing burst for passersby and a cool play spot for neighborhood children.
Detailed operating hours and usage information for each facility are available on the Gwangjin-gu website and through the relevant district departments. The district is conducting thorough water quality management and safety inspections to ensure residents can use the facilities safely and comfortably.
"With an unprecedented heat wave forecast this summer, we have made thorough preparations to ensure residents can enjoy a safe and comfortable escape from the heat close to home," District Mayor Kim said. "Above all, since these are facilities used by children, we will leave no gaps in water quality and safety management so that Gwangjin-gu remains a place residents can visit with peace of mind."
Beyond the water facilities, the district is also pursuing a range of heat-relief measures residents can feel directly, including operating "Gwangjin Water Stations" that provide free chilled bottled water and keeping designated cooling centers open at all times.
seouldream01@heraldcorp.com
