Prime Minister Jeong: "This Week Marks the Final Critical Phase of the Monsoon... Focus on Minimizing Casualties and Property Damage"

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun on the 3rd urged, "Please prepare thoroughly with a focus on minimizing casualties and property damage, with the determination that this week is the final critical phase of the current monsoon season."

On the same day, Prime Minister Chung held a meeting with related ministers at the Government Seoul Office to review the damage and response situation caused by the heavy rain, stating, "Due to the prolonged monsoon lasting over 40 days, damage continues across various parts of the country."

He mentioned, "Last weekend, significant damage occurred in Gyeonggi Province and Chungcheongbuk Province," adding, "There were also sacrifices among firefighters conducting rescue operations on site. It is truly regrettable and weighs heavily on my heart."

He emphasized, "Protecting the lives and property of the people is the most fundamental duty of the state, so we must not let our guard down until the end and do our best."

He also requested, "When heavy rain warnings are issued, related ministries and local governments should strictly control access to underground passages, riversides, and low-lying areas prone to frequent flooding. Additionally, considering that the ground has weakened due to the prolonged monsoon, please prioritize safety measures such as preemptive evacuation of residents in areas at risk of landslides and those near retaining walls or embankments at risk of collapse."

Furthermore, he said, "I also ask the public to refrain from unnecessary outings and outdoor work during the rain, and to pay close attention to weather information and public action guidelines broadcasts to avoid damage."