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Seongdong Smart Shelter Sets New Standard for Safe, Accessible, and Connected Urban Transit Spaces

The Seongdong Smart Shelter, developed by the Seongdong-District Office in collaboration with LG Electronics and local stakeholders, has been recognized with the Platinum A' Design Award for its groundbreaking approach to public transit infrastructure. Installed at bus stops throughout Seongdong District since 2019, the Smart Shelter reimagines the traditional bus stop as a secure, comfortable, and inclusive space, inspired by the vigilance of meerkats and the natural beauty of Seoul Forest. Its design features curved glass walls for unobstructed views, transforming the waiting experience into a relaxing, café-like environment.

What sets the Seongdong Smart Shelter apart is its comprehensive integration of advanced safety and health technologies. The shelter is equipped with CCTV, panic buttons, abnormal sound detectors, air conditioning, air sterilizers, and thermal imaging cameras. Facilities for vulnerable groups include hearing loops, wheelchair zones, and both audio and video bus arrival information, all managed remotely via IoT systems. These features ensure that waiting for public transportation is not only safer but also more accessible for people with disabilities, the elderly, and parents with strollers.

The project's success is rooted in a democratic, resident-driven process, utilizing a Living Lab model to gather input from the community and leveraging big data to determine optimal locations. LG Electronics provided design expertise, while local universities contributed to the shelter's ambiance with custom music. The shelter's modular design allows for installation on both wide and narrow roads, and ongoing enhancements-such as improved insulation, blinds, and the addition of AEDs-reflect a commitment to continuous improvement. The Smart Shelter stands as a model for cities worldwide, demonstrating how thoughtful design and technology can elevate urban mobility and public wellbeing.

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