{"id":2202673,"date":"2023-11-09T17:20:26","date_gmt":"2023-11-09T08:20:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/koreapro.org\/?p=2202673"},"modified":"2023-11-10T18:47:50","modified_gmt":"2023-11-10T09:47:50","slug":"ageism-in-the-fast-lane-south-koreas-contentious-subway-and-airport-debate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/koreapro.org\/2023\/11\/ageism-in-the-fast-lane-south-koreas-contentious-subway-and-airport-debate\/","title":{"rendered":"Ageism in the fast lane: South Korea\u2019s contentious subway and airport debate"},"content":{"rendered":"
As South Korea grappled with a <\/span>record-breaking heatwave<\/span><\/a> this summer, Incheon International Airport, the country\u2019s largest, became an unlikely gathering spot for the nation\u2019s senior citizens. However, the increasing presence of senior citizens in such a setting has stirred diverse opinions.<\/span><\/p>\n Some members of the public are apprehensive, worried about the <\/span>perception among foreign visitors<\/span><\/a>. Conversely, others highlight the lack of welfare support for South Korea\u2019s active senior citizens and the prevailing ageism that might be pushing them toward these unconventional public spaces.<\/span><\/p>\n Data from the state-run airport railroad company reveals a notable trend. An average daily count of 1,330 senior visitors at Incheon International Airport in July, a significant <\/span>32.6% increase<\/span><\/a> from the same period the previous year.<\/span><\/p>\n Several factors contribute to this surge in elderly visitors. The airport\u2019s <\/span>air-conditioned environment<\/span><\/a> is a refreshing alternative to the oppressive outdoor heat. Recent <\/span>increases in electricity costs<\/span><\/a> have made the free cooling of the airport an appealing respite for many.<\/span><\/p>\n Additionally, South Korea\u2019s policy of offering <\/span>free subway rides<\/span><\/a> for those over 65 has facilitated these airport visits. Benefiting from this perk, seniors from as far as Seoul, Gyeonggi Province, and even remote rural towns have made their way to the airport.<\/span><\/p>\n