Kim Hyun-sook: "Initial Preparation Was Insufficient... 'Typhoon Response Measures' Are Under Discussion"

Afternoon Additional Briefing Scheduled
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Kim Hyun-sook, Minister of Gender Equality and Family and co-chair of the organizing committee for the '2023 Saemangeum World Scout Jamboree,' acknowledged the controversy over the event response, stating, "It is true that there was a lack of preparation at the beginning," but added, "The situation has improved significantly compared to the start." She also explained that countermeasures are being discussed regarding Typhoon 'Khanun,' which is expected to make landfall on the Korean Peninsula around the 10th.

On the morning of the 7th, Minister Kim held a daily briefing at the Saemangeum Jamboree Press Center in Jeonbuk and responded to reporters' questions about the event appearing "quite unprepared and chaotic" by saying, "According to a survey conducted by the World Organization of the Scout Movement, about 4% were 'very dissatisfied.'"

However, when asked about the specific details of the survey, she replied, "The data was compiled by the World Organization of the Scout Movement, and I quoted it," adding that she could not disclose the materials.

Regarding whether there is a typhoon response plan, she said, "Currently, we are discussing typhoon response measures with related agencies such as the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to ensure the safety of the World Jamboree, and I will be able to provide detailed explanations about this in the afternoon," adding, "The briefing time will be announced in advance."

On the method of moving the large-scale group of 40,000 people, she said, "We are preparing countermeasures" and "We have agreed to discuss this with the World Organization of the Scout Movement."

When asked if anything has been finalized regarding typhoon response, she said, "There are 342 shelters prepared in anticipation of the approaching typhoon," and "We will announce countermeasures this afternoon."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Regarding the K-POP concert scheduled to be held on the closing day, the 11th, she said, "We need to monitor the typhoon situation," and added, "I believe the decision will prioritize safety." Nevertheless, she added, "As of now, the plan is to hold it in Jeonju."

In addition, concerning the need to change the scheduled home game dates or venues due to the concert being moved from the 6th to the 11th at Jeonju World Cup Stadium, she said, "That should be answered by Jeonbuk Province." When asked about countermeasures against the spread of COVID-19, she replied, "The responsible doctor is not present at the briefing, so I will respond later."

Regarding the incident where a Thai man entered the women's shower area within the Saemangeum World Scout Jamboree site, she said, "The police are investigating, and the suspect has been separated and is being held on-site," adding, "I understand that he will leave once the investigation is complete."

Regarding the delay in the press tour schedule for reporters that morning, she explained, "I will speak again to ensure that the World Organization of the Scout Movement can take action."

As reporters continued to ask questions, Minister Kim left around 11 a.m. to attend a meeting.

Meanwhile, according to the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, the total number of daily medical visits within the Jamboree the previous day was 1,296. Among them, 'insect bites' accounted for 368 cases (28.4%), 'sunburn' for 180 cases (13.9%), 'skin lesions' for 88 cases (6.8%), and 'heat-related injuries' for 56 cases (4.3%).

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