What is the Current Death Toll in South Korea After Heavy Rains and Landslides?
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Synopsis
The recent severe weather in South Korea has resulted in a tragic death toll of 23 due to floods and landslides. With recovery efforts underway, the government is mobilizing resources to assist affected communities. Stay informed about the situation and the ongoing recovery operations.
Key Takeaways
- Death Toll: 23 confirmed fatalities due to floods and landslides.
- Displacement: Over 14,000 individuals are currently sheltering away from their homes.
- Recovery Efforts: 50.7% of damaged facilities have begun restoration.
- Military Involvement: Around 2,500 military personnel are aiding in recovery operations.
- Government Response: Areas are being designated as special disaster zones for enhanced support.
Seoul, July 24 (NationPress) Tragically, four additional fatalities have been reported following the severe rainfall from last week, which resulted in devastating floods and landslides, raising the overall death toll to 23, according to the interior ministry's announcement on Thursday.
Authorities located the bodies of three individuals who were previously unaccounted for in the southern region of Sancheong and one more in the northern area of Gapyeong. This followed intense downpours that lashed the nation from Wednesday to Sunday, as noted in the ministry's daily safety report.
With these discoveries, the number of individuals still missing has been reduced from nine to five.
Regionally, 13 deaths were recorded in South Gyeongsang Province, six in Gyeonggi Province, three in South Chungcheong Province, and one in the southwestern city of Gwangju.
The government’s primary focus is now on recovery operations, with over 50.7% of the reported damage to 12,791 public facilities and private properties undergoing emergency restoration.
Since the onset of the heavy rains, more than 14,000 individuals have sought refuge in shelters, while 2,549 remain displaced from their homes, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Earlier on July 21, President Lee Jae Myung urged government officials to promptly designate the flood-affected areas as special disaster zones to enhance rescue efforts and support for the impacted communities.
During his visit, he instructed Interior and Safety Minister Yun Ho-jung to mobilize all necessary resources and administrative assistance for the victims and to ensure swift designation of the flood-stricken areas as special disaster zones, as conveyed by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung to reporters.
These special disaster zones qualify for government assistance for recovery and victim support.
The South Korean Army has also dispatched around 2,500 military personnel and equipment to the regions most affected by the recent torrential rains to aid in recovery efforts.
Approximately 2,500 emergency personnel and 20 pieces of equipment have been deployed in the southwestern city of Gwangju, parts of South Chungcheong Province, and South Gyeongsang Province since Thursday, according to military reports.
Point of View
The recent natural disasters have highlighted both the vulnerabilities within our infrastructure and the resilience of our community. It is imperative that we support recovery efforts and assist those affected, reinforcing a commitment to rebuilding and improving our preparedness for future events.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent floods in South Korea?
The floods were triggered by severe heavy rains that occurred over several days, leading to landslides and significant damage.
How is the government responding to the disaster?
The South Korean government is designating affected areas as special disaster zones, mobilizing resources for recovery, and providing support to victims.
How many people have been displaced due to the floods?
Over 14,000 people have sought shelter, with approximately 2,549 still unable to return to their homes.
What regions have been most affected?
The most affected areas include South Gyeongsang Province, Gyeonggi Province, South Chungcheong Province, and Gwangju.
What assistance is being offered to the victims?
Victims are entitled to government support for recovery and relief in designated special disaster zones.
