Exploring Sudabucks: A Unique Youth Space in Dangjin
When I first heard the name Sudabucks, I thought it was a lighthearted parody of Starbucks.
However, upon visiting, I realized that this space is not just a café, but a manifestation of Dangjin's youth policies.
Unfortunately, it is not a space that tourists can freely visit; it is exclusively for youth aged 9 to 24.
The operating hours are from Tuesday to Friday, 1 PM to 8 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.
Sudabucks serves as a multi-cultural space specifically for teenagers, designed around the concept of being a 'place for conversation.'
As soon as you enter, you can feel the intent for youth to gather, relax, and engage in activities.
If you thought it was merely a study room or library, you would be mistaken.
The interior is designed like a café, and upon entering, it feels very much like a regular café.
Moreover, since it is operated by the city, it can be accessed for free or at a low cost, which is a significant advantage.
The interior is divided into café space, small meeting rooms, and activity areas.
The café area is designed as a lounge where you can enjoy drinks and conversations.
There are various seating arrangements, from quiet single seats to tables for groups.
Details like graffiti boards and memo spaces on the walls cater to the youthful spirit.
The small meeting rooms are set up for clubs or study groups.
It appears to operate on a reservation basis, allowing for small gatherings, practice presentations, and workshops.
The overall atmosphere is bright and organized.
It's not too solemn, nor is it chaotic, providing a comfortable environment for youth to come and go.
During my visit as part of the Dangjin Supporters, it was a weekday afternoon, and I saw middle and high school students coming in after school.
Some were sipping drinks while looking at their smartphones, while others were chatting animatedly with friends.
They laughed freely without concern and casually greeted the staff.
What struck me was that this space is perceived by youth as 'their space.'
In external spaces like cafés or libraries, there can often be a sense of pressure, but here, that tension was absent.
This is a place where one can comfortably be oneself, which I believe is what Sudabucks aims to create.
One slight disappointment was that, from a traveler's perspective, it would have been nice if Sudabucks were designated as a tourist attraction, open for anyone to use.
While it is indeed a space for youth, I genuinely appreciated the facilities and programs available.
It is not overflowing with flashy sights or Instagrammable photo zones.
However, it provides insight into how Dangjin views its youth and how the local government designs the daily lives of its residents.
This space made me realize that a single location can reflect a city's philosophy.
Additionally, I was moved by Dangjin's sincerity in contemplating what youth truly need and translating that into a physical space.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224262204360
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