(Photo by City of Busan/courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)
A former U.S. military barracks in Busan Citizens Park has been transformed into a public indoor play space for young children, marking a new chapter for a site once known as Camp Hialeah.
The “Dangsincheoreom Aejijungji Public Kids Café,” is an indoor playground dedicated to infants and preschoolers. The project is part of the city’s childcare policy brand “Dangsincheoreom Aejijungji,” aimed at expanding family-friendly public spaces.
The building, located within a historic preservation zone, was formerly used as military housing during the U.S. Army’s occupation of Camp Hialeah.
Renovations were carried out following a detailed review by national heritage experts to preserve the structure’s original barracks form while adapting it for modern use.
Outside, visitors are greeted by photo zones featuring Pororo and Busan’s official character Boogi. A historical information board has also been installed, allowing families to learn about the site’s layered past.
Inside, the facility is designed around a “forest adventure” concept.
The main play experience room features three themed areas: an interactive sound-and-animal zone where children’s drawings come to life on screen; a climbing and movement space that encourages large motor development; and a forest-inspired stage area where children can explore natural sounds.
Supporting facilities include a nursing room, family restroom, and counseling room.
In addition to free play, the café will offer parent-child activity programs and sensory play sessions led by instructors. Parenting support services, including counseling and developmental guidance, will also be available on-site.
The facility began pilot operations on December 23 and has welcomed an average of 142 visitors per day over the past two months.
It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., operating in four daily sessions.
Admission is free for children aged 0 to 5 and their parents and no food or beverages are sold on site.
City officials say this is the first of several planned public kids cafés.
A second location, utilizing a closed daycare facility in Nam-gu, is scheduled to open later this year.
Busan plans to continue expanding the model through public-private partnerships and the reuse of idle community spaces.