Hyundai Steel, in collaboration with the Purme Foundation, is installing “Everyone’s Benches” in public places in Seoul where both disabled and able-bodied individuals can sit side by side.
From left to right: Choi Sang-geon, Head of the Strategy Planning Division; Purme Foundation Executive Director; Oh Se-hoon, Mayor of Seoul; Yoo Hyun-joon, Hongik University Professor
This social contribution program was funded by the company matching donations from the employees’ walking step donation campaign, resulting in the contribution of USD 130,000. Of the various ideas proposed by the Purme Foundation, this initiative was selected after a vote by the Hyundai Steel staff.
Everyone’s Benches has a universal design that accommodates wheelchair users and able-bodied individuals side by side. Designed by Professor Yoo Hyun-joon of Yoo Hyun-joon Architects (Hongik University), these benches will be installed in public spaces such as parks, universities, and welfare facilities across Seoul. The rollout is set to begin at Yeouido Park, with approximately 30 benches planned to be installed in the first half of this year.
On April 17, just ahead of International Day of People with Disabilities, Hyundai Steel partnered with the city of Seoul to open the first Everyone’s Bench at Yeouido Park. The event was attended by Choi Sang-geon, Head of the Strategy Planning Division; Oh Se-hoon, Mayor of Seoul; Yoo Hyun-joon, Professor at Hongik University; the Executive Director of the Purme Foundation, and a child in a wheelchair as the representative of the disabled population.
“Steel is a material that makes our lives more comfortable and safer,” Choi Sang-geon, Head of the Strategy Planning Division said. “We are committed to continuing our social contribution efforts, using steel to improve safety and convenience for both the disabled and the able-bodied.” Professor Yoo Hyun-joon added, “When I was designing Everyone’s Benches, my aim was for inclusivity – disabled or not, everyone should face the same direction. I wanted people to feel that we share the same world, even when wheelchairs are not present. I also focused on minimizing costs and not occupying too much space.” He concluded, “I’m glad that the result was satisfying for everyone.”
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