South Korea declares flood-hit areas special disaster zones

President Yoon Suk Yeol has designated Geoje City and parts of Tongyeong, specifically Sanyang-eup and Bongpyeong-dong in South Gyeongsang Province, as special disaster zones. This urgent measure comes in response to the extensive damage inflicted by torrential rains that occurred during the Liberation Day holiday weekend, from August 15th to 17th.

Choi Sang-mok, Senior Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs, announced the decision via a written briefing, stating that the government is mobilizing all available personnel and resources to expedite relief and recovery efforts. "The government is making every effort to swiftly address the damage and facilitate recovery by mobilizing all available personnel and resources," Choi stated.

The declaration of special disaster areas unlocks additional national funding for reconstruction. Residents in these zones will also benefit from measures such as tax payment deferrals for national and local taxes, and reductions in public utility fees. The government plans to conduct detailed investigations in other affected areas to determine if they meet the criteria for special disaster zone status, with further declarations to be considered.

This swift action aims to provide immediate support to communities devastated by the extreme weather. The government's commitment to a thorough assessment and potential expansion of aid underscores the severity of the flooding and the need for comprehensive disaster response.

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The government is making every effort to swiftly address the damage and facilitate recovery by mobilizing all available personnel and resources.