A Seoul convenience store worker affixes an extreme weather shelter sign at the shop entrance in this undated photo. Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) will create shelters at 41 convenience stores across the capital, so citizens can cool down during summer or escape cold weather during winter.

The city government said Sunday that it signed memoranda of understanding (MOU) with BGF Retail and GS Retail respectively last Friday.

BGF Retail is the operator of the country's major convenience store franchise CU, while GS Retail operates GS25 convenience stores.

Traditionally, community centers and welfare facilities have served as shelters during extreme weather conditions. However, limited access and operating hours posed challenges for many. To address this, the city proposed utilizing convenience stores due to their accessibility and round-the-clock operation.

BGF Retail and GS Retail expressed their support, leading to the commitment of 23 CU stores and 18 GS25 stores, located in 18 districts across the capital, to serve as initial shelters.

These stores will provide rest zones with the aim of offering shelter to citizens during both cold snaps and heat waves.

As part of the initiative, the city government will install signs certifying these stores as collaborative partners and embark on promotional activities. Additionally, administrative support measures, such as assistance for store owners, will be provided to encourage voluntary participation.

The trial operation of these centers will commence on Thursday and run until March 15 when the city government's readiness against cold waves will be lifted. It will then analyze the effectiveness of the shelters and work to expand the number before the heat waves begin.

"These shelters represent a public-private partnership model," an SMG official said, adding that the partners will do their best to make Seoul safer and more comfortable amid extreme weather conditions.