SudaBucks: A Cultural Space for Youth in Dangjin
At first glance, SudaBucks may evoke thoughts of a café where you order drinks, but it is actually a dedicated space for youth provided by the city of Dangjin.
This multifaceted cultural space goes beyond merely being a place to relax; it is designed for learning, experiencing, and socializing with peers.
SudaBucks currently operates three locations, and the one we visited is the second branch.
The oval-shaped building with large glass windows stands out from afar, giving a sophisticated impression that belies its public facility status.
This architectural marvel has been recognized for its value, winning the Grand Prize at the 2024 Korea Public Architecture Awards and an Excellence Award at the 2025 Korea Wooden Architecture Competition.
At the entrance, there is a transparent PET bottle collection machine.
By depositing cleaned bottles, visitors can earn points, allowing them to experience the meaning of resource recycling in a natural way.
It is impressive that one can simultaneously engage in environmental protection and practical living.
The operating hours for SudaBucks 2 are from 10 AM to 8 PM on weekdays and until 6 PM on weekends and in January and February, with Mondays being a day off.
Youth aged 9 to 24 residing in Dangjin can use the facilities freely without any additional fees.
The second branch of SudaBucks is gaining attention not only for its architecture but also for its operational achievements.
It received the Chungcheongnam-do Education Superintendent Award in the annual excellence case competition for youth participation in 2024.
The theater club 'Merhen' has achieved remarkable results in national competitions, and the dance club 'ALLURE' continues to win awards at provincial competitions.
The single-story building, with a total area of 485.54 square meters, is designed in a rounded shape, allowing visitors to explore the entire space in a circular path.
With high ceilings and an open view, a welcoming atmosphere is created for youth to gather and stay comfortably.
Inside, there is a dance practice room primarily used by the dance club, which is also available for others to use for one hour at a time.
The club room serves as a meeting space for various youth clubs and committees, and non-profit youth-related organizations can reserve it in advance.
The makerspace is equipped with various tools to support youth creative activities, including a CNC embroidery machine, flat press, Cricut maker, mug press, and printers, facilitating hands-on programs.
There are also dedicated spaces with computers and PlayStations available for one-hour sessions on a first-come, first-served basis.
A karaoke room is also available, allowing youth to enjoy self-expression through singing and performances.
All these facilities can be used for free by youth in Dangjin.
A cafeteria space that aligns with the name SudaBucks has been established, offering one drink per person for youth aged 9 to 24, operating from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
This space also hosts barista training programs.
The cafeteria connects indoor and outdoor areas, allowing visitors to enjoy drinks outside on pleasant days.
A shelter for stray cats is thoughtfully included, reflecting the care put into the space.
Multipurpose areas are available throughout the facility for friends to gather, chat, play board games, or read freely.
The restrooms are well-maintained, and free sanitary napkin dispensers are installed for emergencies, reflecting the city of Dangjin's commitment to being a women-friendly city.
SudaBucks 2 operates on a structure where youth are not just users but actively participate in management and activities.
From space design to program development, youth opinions are incorporated, creating an environment where they can take initiative and thrive.
Overall, it is a meaningful space for youth to expand their possibilities while engaging in daily life.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224180083546
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