Seoul opens air-conditioned 'Haepiso' oasis to escape summer heat

Visitors take shelter from the heat inside a “Haepiso” cooling station installed near the Hangeul Fountain at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on June 10. The dome-shaped structure is part of Seoul’s outdoor heat-relief program and is equipped with air-conditioning to provide a temporary refuge during periods of extreme heat. The name “Haepiso” refers to “a place to stay while avoiding the sun” in Korean and also evokes the phrase “a happy place,” reflecting its role as a comfortable retreat where residents and visitors can escape the summer heat.