Visitors are flocking to a converted abandoned mine in Boryeong, South Chungcheong Province, to escape ongoing summer heatwaves [1].
This unusual destination serves as a natural air conditioner by utilizing the earth's internal cooling properties. As traditional cooling costs rise and urban heat islands intensify, repurposed industrial sites offer a sustainable alternative for public cooling centers.
Inside the facility, the temperature remains around 12°C [1], even when outdoor temperatures exceed 30°C [1]. The facility relies on the natural movement of air from deep underground to maintain this chill without industrial refrigeration.
"The air here is so chilly that it makes your body shrink," said YTN reporter Lee Sang-gon [1].
The cooling effect is driven by a consistent flow of subterranean air. According to Lee, the cold wind rising from the depths of the mine reaches speeds of six meters per second [1]. This combination of low temperature and high wind speed creates an environment significantly colder than typical indoor air-conditioned spaces.
Local authorities have developed the site into a "cold wind bath" to provide a low-cost, high-efficiency relief zone for tourists and residents. The site transforms a defunct industrial asset into a community resource that addresses the immediate needs of the population during extreme weather events [1, 2].
Visitors often describe the sensation as a stark contrast to the humid conditions outside. The facility's ability to maintain a steady 12°C [1], regardless of the external peak heat, makes it a primary destination for those seeking a complete break from the summer sun.
“The air here is so chilly that it makes your body shrink.”
The use of abandoned mines for temperature regulation demonstrates a practical application of geothermal cooling. By repurposing industrial ruins, cities can create energy-efficient public infrastructure that mitigates the health risks of extreme heatwaves without increasing the electrical load on the city grid.
