South Korea Raises Heritage Disaster Alert to 'Alert' Amid Heavy Rains

South Korea's Intangible Cultural Heritage Administration (ICHA) has elevated its disaster and crisis alert for national heritage sites to 'Alert' status, moving up from 'Caution,' due to continuous heavy rainfall across the country. The move signals heightened concern over potential damage to invaluable cultural assets.

In response, the ICHA is activating a swift response system to minimize any impact on heritage sites. This includes reinforcing its 24-hour emergency operations center, with all departments implementing emergency duty rosters. The administration will focus on real-time collection and meticulous management of damage reports from various regions and specific heritage locations.

Should actual damage occur, emergency response measures will be immediately deployed. Cultural heritage care groups will be dispatched to the field to provide urgent protection, and immediate on-site investigations will be conducted for any confirmed damage. The ICHA is also considering implementing viewing restrictions at major palaces, royal tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, and historical sites, depending on weather conditions. This proactive step aims to ensure visitor safety and prevent further deterioration of national heritage.

The ICHA had previously held an emergency disaster and safety meeting on July 2nd, where it shared comprehensive disaster prevention and safety management strategies. The plan included strengthening phased alert duty based on weather conditions and operating a special response period, underscoring the administration's commitment to safeguarding the nation's cultural legacy.