Seoul Plans to Cover All Sidewalks with Shade by 2028 Amid Extreme Heat

Seoul plans to cover all sidewalks with shade by 2028 as authorities respond to increasingly severe heat waves. The initiative reflects a broader effort to treat extreme heat as a critical public safety threat rather than a seasonal inconvenience. Planned measures could include shade structures, trees, cooling facilities, and redesigned pedestrian routes. Officials say the program will protect residents, especially older people, children, outdoor workers, and those with health conditions. The project may also improve walkability and urban resilience across Seoul.