Seongsoo Jeon, Seocho District Mayor, Expresses Gratitude to Flood Recovery Contributors (Groups) Invited

Recognition Ceremony and Meeting Held for Over 100 Contributors (Groups) Who Worked on Flood Recovery from August Heavy Rain & Rapid Recovery Achieved Thanks to Residents, Volunteers, and Soldiers Assisting Flooded Homes and Businesses

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Seocho-gu (Mayor Jeon Seong-su) announced on the 3rd that it invited about 100 meritorious individuals and organizations who actively contributed to flood recovery efforts amid the damage caused by the heavy rains in August, and held an award ceremony and a meeting.

On September 30, Mayor Jeon Seong-su personally awarded commendations and expressed gratitude to a total of 91 heroes, including residents and volunteers who worked hard to restore flood damage, related organizations such as military units and fire stations, and relief goods donation and volunteer groups, at the Seocho-gu Office auditorium.

Although the district suffered significant damage from the heavy rains in August, to the extent that it was declared a special disaster area, thanks to the numerous helping hands supporting flood recovery efforts, restoration work was able to proceed swiftly despite the difficulties. This event was organized to remember the contributions of those who worked on the front lines to restore the area and practiced neighborly love amid the harsh conditions of heatwaves and COVID-19.

The flood recovery meritorious individuals (organizations) provided great comfort to residents exhausted by flood damage through activities such as ▲removal of mud and garbage from flooded households and stores ▲pumping and drainage work using pumps ▲cleaning to remove rainwater and moving wet electronics and furniture ▲consoling affected residents and delivering relief supplies ▲supporting restoration work in various places such as roads, parks, and walking trails within the district.

In particular, the most notable point was the first-time formation and operation of the ‘Public-Private Emergency Recovery Team,’ composed of residents from 18 neighborhoods within the district. Residents who know the characteristics of every corner of their neighborhoods well voluntarily stepped forward to help neighbors affected by the flood, which greatly contributed to swift and meticulous recovery work. The district plans to continue this system so that residents can voluntarily participate in recovery efforts whenever various disasters such as heavy rain or snow occur in the future.

Following the award ceremony, a meeting was held where participants shared sincere stories about their experiences and impressions from participating in flood recovery activities.

A person who introduced themselves as a ‘citizen of Pohang,’ Mr. Park, said, “Upon hearing the news of severe damage in Seocho-gu, I came all the way from Pohang with my personal equipment such as dehumidifiers, dryers, and sterilizers in hand,” and added, “I have no ties to Seocho-gu, so I stayed and ate at a nearby motel while helping with recovery activities. It will remain an unforgettable memory for life.”

Also attending the meeting was Mr. Choi, the head of ‘Hanbae Art Cultures’ (affiliated with the Seocho Specialized Volunteer Group), who was previously featured in the media for removing 0.5 tons of trash blocking drainage for over five hours, risking danger when about 100 vehicles were at risk of being submerged due to rising water on the Gangnam Circular Road. Mr. Choi said, “Volunteering regularly at the Seocho-gu Volunteer Center became a habit, so I was able to rush to the scene without hesitation in an emergency,” and added, “I hope the wonderful stories of everyone gathered here today spread throughout South Korea, becoming a model for many and continuing the virtuous cycle of sharing and volunteering.”

Mr. Kim, a resident who participated as a member of the ‘Public-Private Emergency Recovery Team,’ said, “I only did what was natural to help neighbors in difficulty even in a small way, so I feel shy receiving such thanks.”

Mayor Jeon Seong-su of Seocho-gu said, “On behalf of the 410,000 residents of Seocho-gu, I express respect and gratitude to all those who devoted themselves wholeheartedly to emergency recovery activities,” and added, “We will never forget the good deeds of the ‘heroes’ who appear like Superman in times of crisis throughout our society, and we will do our utmost to create a safe and happy Seocho-gu.”