JEONGSEON:Torrential rains in South Korea’s southern regions have resulted in the death of an elderly man and significant flooding of farms, roads, and houses, as well as damage to cultural heritage sites. The heavy downpours, which began last Thursday, have especially impacted South Jeolla Province, causing widespread destruction and prompting evacuations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, an 89-year-old man was tragically found dead in a reservoir in Jangheung, South Jeolla Province. He reportedly fell into a drainage ditch near his home on Saturday. This incident underscores the severe impact of the flooding on local communities.
The region has received record rainfall, with Yeosu experiencing up to 400 millimeters, while Jangheung, Gangjin, and Suncheon saw over 300 millimeters. Consequently, more than 1,030 hectares of farmland have been damaged, and approximately 300 tons of stored grain were destroyed in Jangheung.
In addition to agricultural losses, around 145 houses and numerous roads in South Jeol
la Province were submerged. Approximately 60 individuals had to be evacuated from a campsite in Hwasun due to the risk of landslides triggered by the rains.
The unprecedented weather also inflicted damage on cultural sites. In Gimhae, South Gyeongsang Province, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Daeseong-dong Tumuli suffered its first collapse due to heavy rain, highlighting the extensive reach of the storm’s impact.
The local disaster authorities are continuing to assess the full scope of the damage and coordinate relief efforts to support affected residents and restore damaged infrastructure.