The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) announced its comprehensive measures for this winter spanning four months from Nov. 15, 2022 to Mar. 15, 2023 so that citizens can enjoy a safe and cozy winter.

The main focus of the city’s comprehensive measures for winter 2022 include 17 tasks in five major areas: cold wave; snow removal; safety; health and environment; and livelihood.

First, the city will provide greater support to the disadvantaged as part of its inclusive social welfare policy, focusing on providing warmth to withstand the cold wave during winter—80,600 thermal clothes will be provided to the homeless (up 58.6% YOY), and 41,185 daily essentials will be provided to jjokbang residents. The city will also work with private companies to provide KRW 1 billion in heating costs to small SOC facilities such as childcare centers. Moreover, city officials will contact senior citizens in need of care assistance by phone and make visits every other to check their safety during cold waves.

Second, the city’s comprehensive measures for this winter also include operating the Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters around the clock to be prepared for snowstorms as well as to minimize public inconvenience. Special facility management will be conducted to ensure additional safety such as by installing automatic saltwater sprinklers and dedicated snow removal equipment with dedicated manpower across 54 locations subject to priority management, such as hilly roads and snow-prone areas. The city has also set up emergency procedures, such as extending public transportation service hours, in the event of heavy snowfall.

Third, the city will conduct a full-scale survey in 50 high-congestion areas, such as Hongdae and Gangnam Station, to establish thorough safety measures in advance for areas and events where large crowds are expected to gather during the year-end and New Year holidays through consultation with relevant organizations, including district offices, police departments, and fire stations.

Fourth, the city will align its COVID-19 protocols according to the central government’s return to normalcy and encourage vaccination instead of placing restrictions such as social distancing in order to prepare for the twindemic. COVID-19 vaccines will be available at public health centers and consigned medical institutions.

Lastly, the city will secure its energy sources by establishing a winter energy supply plan to check on energy supply facilities, and implement energy saving measures by controlling the indoor temperature of public institutions to 17℃.