[Photo] Between Heavy Rain and Heatwaves

Residents of a Seoul slum village are facing harsh summer conditions, caught between the remnants of heavy rains and oppressive heatwaves, as they await relocation for a public housing development. The area, a "jjokbang촌" or single-room dwelling village in Yeongdeungpo-gu, shows signs of transition, with some residents still present despite the impending move.

Photographs from the scene depict a stark reality: laundry hangs to dry in alleys after the rain, and some residents seek refuge from the heat using cooling mist systems installed in the narrow streets. However, the overall atmosphere is one of sparse activity, with many homes seemingly abandoned. Locked doors are accompanied by stacks of mail, indicating that residents have left, while others remain to navigate the challenging environment.

Local authorities, including the Seoul Housing & Communities Corporation (SH Corporation), have posted notices prohibiting illegal occupation and waste dumping, underscoring the ongoing transition. In response to the extreme weather, the Yeongdeungpo district office has initiated a special protection plan for the homeless and residents of the slum village until October 15. This plan includes operating public cooling centers, offering mobile shower services, and maintaining the cooling mist systems to mitigate the impact of the heat and heavy rainfall.