President Lee Jae-myung has ordered an “all-out effort” to locate the missing and accelerate recovery operations after days of torrential rains triggered devastating floods and landslides across South Korea.
As of Monday, 19 people have been confirmed dead, with nine others still missing. Approximately 2,549 residents remain displaced, and over 3,700 facilities, including homes and businesses, have sustained significant damage.
The government has declared special disaster zones in the hardest-hit areas, unlocking emergency funds and accelerating relief efforts. President Lee emphasized the urgency of tailored disaster response measures, calling for region-specific action plans to cope with increasingly extreme weather.
“We must spare no effort in the search for the missing and in restoring affected communities,” President Lee said during a cabinet meeting on Monday. “Officials who fail to act will be held accountable.”
Record-Breaking Rainfall and Deadly Landslides
The worst-hit region, Gapyeong County, witnessed a deluge of 173 mm (6.8 inches) of rain in just 17 hours the highest rainfall ever recorded there. This triggered massive landslides that engulfed homes and campsites, leaving behind a trail of destruction and prompting dramatic rescue operations, including the use of zip-lines and helicopter airlifts.
Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate as roads, rail lines, and utility infrastructure were washed away or rendered unsafe. Emergency responders continue to search through debris in several provinces, hoping to find survivors.
Rising Heat Adds to Crisis
While the rains have eased, a heatwave alert is now in effect in many parts of the country, raising concerns about the welfare of displaced people living in temporary shelters.
The Meteorological Administration has warned that such extreme weather events once rare are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
Public Scrutiny and Political Fallout
The floods have also sparked public scrutiny of the government’s preparedness and early warning systems. President Lee’s approval rating has dipped slightly, from 64.6% to 62.2%, following criticism of local authorities who were reportedly slow to respond to the crisis.
In response, Lee pledged a full review of emergency protocols and announced plans to improve South Korea’s disaster readiness.
“We must adapt to the changing climate reality. Delays in response cost lives,” he said.
