Mayor Seo Taewon: "The Tunnel of Sorrow Will End... We Will Do Our Best for Recovery"

Condolences to Gapyeong Residents Affected by Torrential Rains
Gratitude Expressed to Kim Dongyeon, Yoon Hojung, and Others

Seo Taewon, Mayor of Gapyeong County in Gyeonggi Province, delivered a heartfelt video message on August 12, expressing deep condolences to the victims and bereaved families affected by the record-breaking torrential rains on July 20, and extended his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the flood recovery efforts.

On the 1st, Yoon Hojung, Minister of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (center), who visited the flood damage site in Gapyeong County, is receiving an explanation of the damage site from Seo Taewon, Mayor of Gapyeong County (left). Provided by Gapyeong County

In his video message titled "Let Us Not Lose Hope and Rise Together," Mayor Seo stated, "The heaviest downpour in 200 years has shaken the lives of our residents and left deep scars in our hearts." He continued, "In particular, I offer my deepest condolences, on behalf of all county residents, to the bereaved families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones."

Due to this heavy rain, areas such as Jojeong-myeon, Sang-myeon, and Buk-myeon in Gapyeong County suffered a series of damages, including flooding and destruction of homes and businesses, landslides, road washouts, and agricultural losses. In particular, seven people lost their lives due to landslides and sudden torrents in valleys and rivers.

Mayor Seo expressed his appreciation to the residents who worked tirelessly at the recovery sites, the volunteers who came from all over the country, and the citizens who donated to the flood relief fund.

Flood damage restoration site. Provided by Gapyeong County

He further emphasized, "The dedicated support from military personnel, police and fire departments, and Korea Electric Power Corporation officials has been a tremendous help in the recovery efforts."

He also expressed his gratitude to Kim Dongyeon, Governor of Gyeonggi Province, Yoon Hojung, Minister of the Interior and Safety, Kim Jintae, Governor of Gangwon Province, as well as mayors and county heads nationwide, political parties, and volunteer organizations. He pledged, "Together with our residents, I will overcome this ordeal and build a safer and stronger Gapyeong."

Mayor Seo concluded, "The tunnel of sorrow is long, but it will eventually end," and added, "All 800 public officials of Gapyeong County will do our utmost, from the perspective of those affected, to ensure a swift and peaceful return to daily life."

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