Seoul City Pushes for Complete Replacement of Subway Toilet Fixtures to Western-Style Toilets

On the morning of the 23rd at 7:30 AM, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon visited the restroom at Jamsil Station on Subway Line 2 for a facility inspection.

Mayor Oh entered the men's restroom and carefully examined the condition of the squat toilet and the western-style toilet.

At the site, Mayor Oh stated, "Recent survey results indicate that very few citizens prefer squat toilets," adding, "We will proceed with replacing squat toilets in order to alleviate the inconvenience for citizens."

The squat toilet, which requires users to squat, has been criticized for being uncomfortable to use and poses a risk of falling for the elderly and children.

Plans for Improvement of Subway Restrooms and Utilization of Idle Spaces

According to Seoul City, this inspection was conducted in response to citizens' complaints about the aging restrooms in subway stations that are used by an average of 7 million people daily.

As of May, it was reported that among the toilets in Seoul subway stations, squat toilets accounted for 33% and western-style toilets for 67%. Seoul City announced plans to gradually replace all squat toilets with western-style toilets by 2028.

After the inspection, Mayor Oh proceeded to take Line 8 to Munjeong Station to inspect idle spaces in the station.

While examining the idle space near Munjeong Station, Mayor Oh said, "We will cultivate idle spaces so that citizens using the subway can enjoy culture and arts." This on-site inspection appears to be an active step by Seoul City to enhance the convenience of subway users and improve the utilization of space.

Image source: News1