"'Seocho-dong Hyeonja' Was Wise, 'Sillim-dong Phelps' Faces Electric Shock Risk"

During Heavy Rain, Climb to High Ground and Wait for Rescue

On the 8th, a man is seen climbing onto a submerged vehicle to take shelter in front of an apartment complex in Seocho-dong, Seoul. Photo by Online Community Capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Park] Amid significant damage caused by record-breaking heavy rain, a disaster prevention expert evaluated the so-called 'Seocho-dong Hermit,' who became a topic of discussion for sitting on top of a submerged vehicle waiting for rescue, as taking "appropriate action." On the other hand, the expert pointed out that the so-called 'Sillim-dong Phelps,' who swam through the heavy rain wearing a swimsuit, could have risked electric shock.

Professor Youngjoo Lee of the Department of Fire and Disaster Prevention at the University of Seoul was recently asked about the citizens who became a topic of discussion at the metropolitan area heavy rain scene on the 8th during MBC Radio's 'Pyo Changwon's News High Kick.'

Regarding the 'Seocho-dong Hermit,' Professor Lee said, "Probably because the surrounding flooding situation was severe, if the person had tried to evacuate recklessly, it could have been more dangerous," adding, "Since the water level was not rising further, I think it was actually safer to wait on the vehicle roof like that."

About the 'Sillim-dong Phelps,' he said, "It is not good for others to imitate that behavior and create similar situations, so it is better to avoid actions driven by mere curiosity." Professor Lee added, "If swimming was unavoidable for survival, then it is an inevitable measure," but also said, "If swimming was done due to swimming skills or interest, it could cause discomfort for others dealing with personal safety or disaster response, such as risks of electric shock or skin diseases."

Professor Lee explained the guidelines for behavior during heavy rain. He emphasized, "First of all, driving in heavy rain when visibility is poor is extremely dangerous, so it is better not to drive regardless of flooding," and added, "Even if the vehicle seems to be operating normally, there is no guarantee it will continue to do so until leaving the flooded area, so if the wheels are already submerged, it is actually better to abandon the vehicle."

He further stressed that driving during heavy rain is dangerous and that one should move to higher ground and wait for rescue. He explained, "If the water suddenly rises around you, making it difficult to evacuate through the flooded area, it is much safer to climb onto the highest point such as the vehicle roof and wait for rescue."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.