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No purchase needed: South Korea businesses offer heat relief to the public

South Korean Businesses Open Doors to Beat the Heat: A Lifeline for the Public Amid Sweltering Summers

In the midst of South Korea's increasingly brutal summer heatwaves, a heartwarming trend is emerging across the nation: businesses are transforming their air-conditioned spaces into public sanctuaries, offering relief from the scorching temperatures without any obligation to make a purchase. This initiative, driven by a mix of corporate social responsibility, community spirit, and government encouragement, is providing a crucial respite for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, outdoor workers, and low-income families who might otherwise suffer in the unrelenting heat. As temperatures soar above 35 degrees Celsius in cities like Seoul and Busan, these "cooling stations" are not just a convenience—they're becoming essential for public health and safety.

The phenomenon gained significant attention this summer, with reports highlighting how cafes, convenience stores, banks, and even some department stores are posting signs that explicitly welcome anyone seeking shelter from the heat. For instance, major convenience store chains like CU and GS25 have rolled out policies allowing people to linger in their air-conditioned aisles, use restrooms, and even charge their phones without buying anything. "We see it as our duty to the community," said a spokesperson for CU in a recent statement. "In times of extreme weather, businesses should step up to support those in need." This approach echoes a broader cultural shift in South Korea, where the concept of "jeong"—a deep sense of affection and communal care—is being applied in modern, urban settings.

Background on the heat crisis reveals why such measures are desperately needed. South Korea has been grappling with record-breaking temperatures in recent years, exacerbated by climate change and urban heat islands. According to meteorological data, the summer of 2023 saw the longest heatwave on record, with heat alerts issued for over 50 consecutive days in some regions. The Korea Meteorological Administration reported that average temperatures have risen by about 1.5 degrees Celsius over the past century, leading to a spike in heat-related illnesses. Hospitals have seen a surge in cases of heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion, particularly among the elderly population, which makes up nearly 20% of the country's residents. In rural areas and older neighborhoods without adequate air conditioning, the risks are even higher. The government has responded by designating thousands of public facilities as official cooling centers, but private businesses are filling critical gaps, especially in densely populated urban areas where public options might be overcrowded or inaccessible.

One vivid example comes from Seoul's bustling Jongno district, where a popular cafe chain called Ediya Coffee has turned its outlets into impromptu havens. Patrons—or rather, visitors—can sit for hours sipping free water provided by staff, escaping the oppressive humidity outside. "I don't have air conditioning at home, and electricity bills are too high to run a fan all day," shared Kim Ji-hoon, a 72-year-old retiree who frequents the cafe. "Coming here saves me from the heat, and the staff are so kind—they even check if I'm okay." Similar stories abound. In Busan, a coastal city hit hard by humid heat, local banks like KB Kookmin Bank have opened their lobbies to the public, offering not just cool air but also health check services like blood pressure monitoring. "We've had construction workers come in during lunch breaks, drenched in sweat, just to cool down," noted a bank manager. "It's rewarding to know we're making a difference."

This business-led initiative isn't entirely altruistic; there's a strategic element at play. By fostering goodwill, companies are enhancing their brand image and potentially attracting future customers. Marketing experts point out that in a competitive retail landscape, such acts of kindness can build long-term loyalty. For example, Lotte Department Store in Seoul has designated entire floors as cooling zones, complete with misting fans and shaded seating areas. No purchase is required, but many visitors end up browsing and buying, turning a humanitarian gesture into a subtle sales opportunity. Nonetheless, the primary motivation appears genuine, especially for smaller, family-run businesses. In smaller towns like Gwangju, mom-and-pop shops are joining the effort, offering iced tea or fruit to passersby. "It's about survival for all of us," said Lee Soo-min, owner of a neighborhood bookstore. "If the community suffers, we all do."

Government policies are amplifying these efforts. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has launched campaigns encouraging businesses to participate, providing incentives such as tax breaks or public recognition for those who comply. In 2023, over 10,000 private establishments registered as voluntary cooling centers, a number expected to grow. This public-private partnership is part of a larger strategy to combat climate vulnerabilities. South Korea's Green New Deal includes investments in urban greening, like planting more trees and installing public mist fountains, but immediate relief is where businesses shine. Additionally, apps and online maps now pinpoint these locations, making it easier for people to find refuge. For instance, the popular Naver Map service has integrated a "heat relief" filter, directing users to nearby spots.

The impact on public health cannot be overstated. Heatwaves have claimed lives in South Korea, with official figures showing over 20 heat-related deaths in 2022 alone, and hundreds more hospitalizations. Vulnerable groups, including migrant workers and the homeless, often lack access to cooled environments. Businesses stepping in help bridge this gap, potentially reducing emergency room visits and alleviating pressure on the healthcare system. Social workers in Seoul report that these spaces also serve as informal social hubs, combating isolation among the elderly. "It's not just about physical relief; it's emotional too," explained Park Min-ji, a community organizer. "People chat, share stories, and feel connected."

However, challenges remain. Not all businesses can afford to participate—smaller ones worry about increased utility costs from prolonged air conditioning use. There's also the risk of overcrowding, which could deter paying customers. To address this, some establishments set time limits or designate specific areas for non-purchasers. Critics argue that while commendable, this reliance on private goodwill highlights systemic issues, like inadequate public infrastructure for climate adaptation. "We need more government-funded cooling centers, not just voluntary ones," advocated environmental activist Choi Eun-kyung. "Businesses are helping, but it's not a sustainable solution."

Looking ahead, as climate models predict even hotter summers, this trend could evolve into a standard practice. Experts suggest integrating it into corporate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, ensuring long-term commitment. International observers are taking note; similar models are appearing in Japan and Taiwan, where heatwaves are also intensifying. In South Korea, the movement symbolizes resilience and community solidarity in the face of environmental adversity.

In essence, these heat relief initiatives by South Korean businesses represent a blend of compassion and pragmatism. By opening their doors without strings attached, they're not only cooling bodies but warming hearts, fostering a sense of unity in a warming world. As one visitor aptly put it, "In this heat, a cool space is more than comfort—it's a gift." With summers growing fiercer, such gestures may well become the new norm, reminding us that in times of crisis, humanity's best response is often found in everyday acts of kindness.

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Read the Full The Straits Times Article at:
[ https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/no-purchase-needed-south-korea-businesses-offer-heat-relief-to-the-public ]