Damyang Flood Recovery... Civil, Government, and Military Join Forces

Over 5,000 People, Including Military, Police, Firefighters, and Volunteer Groups, Join Forces for Swift Recovery
A Model of Community Solidarity and Cooperation in Damyang After Heavy Rainfall

Farmers in the Damyang area suffered extensive damage to farmland and homes due to heavy rainfalls last month, and military forces, police, volunteer fire brigades, and volunteer organizations worked together to support rapid recovery. Provided by Damyang County

In Damyang County, South Jeolla Province, which suffered severe damage from heavy rainfall last month, most of the emergency restoration work has now been completed. The collaboration between civilians, government, and the military has enabled a swift recovery and is being recognized as a model case of community cooperation.

More than 2,000 soldiers from the 3rd Battalion of the 6753rd Unit worked in the Goseo, Changpyeong, and Mujung areas to remove soil and rocks that had been washed onto farmland and to repair damaged paddy field embankments. They also cleared mud and contaminants from flooded homes and helped move household items.

One resident expressed gratitude, saying, "My fields were buried under piles of earth and even my house was flooded, so I felt hopeless. But thanks to the soldiers who stepped in, I have hope to rebuild my life."

Another 2,000 soldiers from the 11th Airborne Special Forces Brigade were also deployed in the Bongsan, Subuk, and Daejeon areas to restore farmland and greenhouses. They cleared farmland covered in debris from the sudden heavy rainfall and restored greenhouses submerged in muddy water, enabling farmers to resume their work. Residents said, "Without the help of the soldiers, it would have been difficult to continue farming," expressing their appreciation.

The Damyang Police Department actively supported recovery efforts during the period from July 14 to 20, when the Ulchi Exercise was suspended due to the declaration of a special disaster zone. Every day, 15 officers were dispatched to sites in Jungjung-ri, Subuk; Yeongcheon-ri, Mujung; and Ilsan-ri, Changpyeong, to help clean up flooded greenhouses and farmland.

In particular, at a farm in Yeongcheon-ri, Mujung, a greenhouse was completely covered in mud and debris, making it impossible to salvage crops. While the elderly farmer was unable to take action, police officers spent two days wading through the mud in boots, clearing away soil and organizing household items. They managed to save some of the wet crops and collected usable farming materials for reuse.

The farmer said, "I thought the police only handled public safety, but their help over two days was a tremendous support in getting my life back to normal."

About 300 volunteer firefighters from South Jeolla Province and Damyang County also joined the cleanup of heavily flooded greenhouses and farmland. They removed damaged plastic coverings and cleared mud and debris inside, helping farmers resume agricultural activities as soon as possible.

Volunteer and civic organizations, such as the Igongigong Volunteer Group, the Women's Volunteer Association, and the Saemaeul Women's Association, also contributed. They helped clean up flooded homes, deployed large laundry trucks to wash wet bedding and clothing, and distributed daily necessities and relief supplies to help stabilize the lives of those affected.

County Governor Jeong Cheolwon emphasized, "The dedication and volunteer spirit shown throughout the recovery process reaffirmed the solidarity of our community. I would like to express my gratitude once again to everyone who contributed, and I will do my utmost to make Damyang a safe place where residents can feel secure."