Exploring Ulsan's Social Economy Cafés
In Ulsan, there are cafés that embody warm values and offer a moment of relaxation over a cup of coffee.
These spaces are operated by social enterprises and cooperatives, providing jobs for individuals and fostering local culture.
From bakeries filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread to cafés that host performances and books, here are four places in Ulsan that combine cost-effectiveness, emotion, and meaning.
# Bakers Baobab - Happiness in Bread and Coffee Amidst Rice Fields
As you pass through Beomeo in Uljin County heading towards Gyeongju, a bright orange building catches your eye among the fields.
This is Bakers Baobab, a bakery café that is instantly recognizable from afar.
Located near Nokdong, famous for its watercress and pork belly dishes, it attracts crowds from opening time on weekends.
The expansive view of the rice fields changes colors with the seasons, enhancing the café's atmosphere.
The biggest charm of this place is its affordable bakery.
Various freshly baked breads are displayed at reasonable prices, with the red rice bread being particularly popular and selling out quickly.
When you enter the café, it's no surprise that you're advised to grab a bread tray first.
With fragrant coffee, freshly baked bread, and a view of the rural landscape outside, a leisurely moment awaits just a short distance from the city.
Bakers Baobab is operated by the Ulsan social enterprise 'Malkun', which also focuses on creating job opportunities for people with disabilities.
This is a place where a delicious piece of bread connects to the warm values of the community.
# Café Madang - A Space Where Theatre Meets Coffee
As you stroll up the alley in Seongan-dong, you will encounter a unique space that combines a performance venue and café.
This is Café Madang, located on the third floor of the Art Hall Madang, operated by the social cooperative Performance Production Studio Madang.
This place is not just a café but a space where performances and culture flow.
After watching a play or musical in the performance hall below, it's natural to come up to the café and discuss the show.
In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom just outside the café window, making it one of Seongan-dong's hidden cherry blossom spots.
Inside the café, Indian tents and various emotional objects create a cozy and warm atmosphere.
The rooftop outdoor space can also be used for group meetings or small events, offering a unique place to enjoy both forest and city views.
A place where culture, coffee, and urban scenery blend together, it is not an exaggeration to say this is the most emotional cultural café in Seongan-dong.
# Café Hana - A Neighborhood Book Café for Kids
In a quiet alley of Hwa-jeong-dong, Dong-gu, there is a book café that offers a warm respite.
This is Café Hana.
In the café's yard, the scent of yellow flowers wafts gently, welcoming visitors with eco-friendly drinks made from seasonal fruits.
Café Hana is operated by the Hanareum Sharing Social Cooperative, created through the dedication of volunteers and the participation of local residents.
Its unique feature is that it is a multi-functional space where children can enjoy themselves.
The second floor is a kids' café where children can play freely, while the third floor is a dreamy library filled with various books.
Children enjoy reading and playing, while parents can relax with coffee.
If you want to slow down in the fast-paced city, I recommend sitting by the window with a view of the neighborhood and opening a book.
# Jiganseoga UNIST Branch - A Space Where It's Okay to Do Nothing
Within the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) campus, there is a special space perfect for quiet reflection.
This is Jiganseoga, operated by the Chansol Social Cooperative.
This place serves as both a café and a space for contemplation and meditation.
"I hope the time spent here helps you reconnect with yourself, those around you, and the world," reads a sign at the entrance.
The operating hours are uniquely expressed:
Open a book at 10:00
Close a book at 21:00
Jiganseoga is designed as a minimalist space blending Japanese Zen aesthetics with French interior design.
In this tranquil space, engineering students can take a break from their studies and relax.
Additionally, the book curation area features humanities books, serving as a small library that expands your thoughts.
Sitting while gazing at the Gamak Reservoir, it's a place where simply doing nothing is more than enough.
These four cafés in Ulsan are social economy spaces that connect people and the community.
They create job opportunities for people with disabilities, operate cultural spaces, and serve as community hubs for families and children.
A moment of relaxation over a cup of coffee leads to warm stories and values in the community.
Next weekend, unfold the Ulsan café map and take your time to explore these four spaces.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/ulsan_nuri/224239230127
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