Ministry of the Interior and Safety Raises Cold Wave Alert to 'Caution'... Strengthens Emergency Response System

On January 10, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety raised the cold wave disaster crisis alert level from "attention" to "caution" as cold wave warnings were issued for most regions nationwide starting at 3 p.m.

The ministry explained that this is a preemptive measure in response to cold wave advisories being issued in 118 out of 183 designated alert zones across the country.

Among the 118 zones under cold wave alerts, 12 are under cold wave warnings, while 106 are under cold wave advisories.

With the cold wave disaster crisis alert level elevated to "caution," the government will urgently strengthen its emergency response system in cooperation with relevant agencies such as fire departments, police, and local governments to minimize damage.

Yonhap News Agency

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety will lead emergency operations, and both central and local governments will reinforce their situation management systems in preparation for any contingencies. Central government ministries, including the Ministry of Employment and Labor, will also switch to emergency work systems for their respective areas of responsibility.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare will provide customized, close monitoring for those vulnerable to the cold. The ministry also recommends extending the operating hours of cold wave shelters to include holidays and nighttime, and will designate and operate emergency shelters to minimize casualties caused by the cold wave.

Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-joong urged, "We ask the public to check weather updates frequently and to follow public safety guidelines, such as wearing warm clothing to maintain body temperature when going outside."