According to the most recent reports, the authorities in South Korea have commenced the process of evacuating a considerable number of individuals taking part in the World Scout Jamboree with the aim of ensuring their safety. The reason behind this evacuation is Typhoon Kompasu, which has the potential to bring severe winds and rainfall to the southern areas of South Korea.
The evacuation currently underway is the most recent difficulty encountered during the jamboree. Prior to this, a heatwave resulted in several scouts falling ill. To guarantee their safety, around 4,500 British scouts were transferred to hotels in Seoul, while approximately 1,000 American scouts were moved to Camp Humphreys, a US military base situated 70 kilometers south of Seoul.
Typhoon Kompasu has already inflicted considerable damage in southern Japan and is projected to make landfall in the southern regions of South Korea on Thursday, then continue its northward trajectory, resulting in strong winds and heavy rainfall. The Japan Meteorological Agency reports that the typhoon is presently situated 350 kilometers west of Kagoshima on Kyushu Island, with wind speeds reaching up to 108 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 144 kilometers per hour. The typhoon is moving slowly in a northward direction.
In response to the approaching typhoon, South Korean authorities have issued instructions to local governments to close coastal areas, hiking trails, river parks, underground passages, and other flood-prone locations. At the primary campsite in Pocheon County, where the jamboree is taking place, scouts from over 150 countries are currently dismantling their tents, packing their belongings, and boarding buses. It is estimated that more than 36,000 scouts will be evacuated from the campsite via a fleet of over 1,000 buses.
South Korea's Minister of Interior and Safety, Lee Sang-min, has announced that police helicopters and patrol cars will provide escorts for the bus convoys during the evacuation process. Seoul and its surrounding area, Gyeonggi Province, will accommodate more than 16,000 scouts, while the remaining scouts will be evacuated to the country's six other regions. Minister Lee emphasized that local governments will conduct inspections to ensure the cleanliness of accommodations and restrooms for the evacuees.
Ahmad Alhendawi, the Secretary-General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, expressed that the current situation poses an unprecedented and intricate challenge in the history of over 100 World Scout Jamborees. This is a unique circumstance they have never encountered before. In response, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has issued immediate orders for the emergency response team to carry out the latest plan without delay.
It is unfortunate to hear that Polish President Andrzej Duda had to cancel his visit to South Korea due to the typhoon, especially considering that Poland was originally slated to host the next World Scout Jamboree in 2027. Such circumstances can disrupt scheduled events and diplomatic engagements. The safety and well-being of the individuals involved must always take precedence in such situations.
Indeed, the unfortunate disruption to the World Scout Jamboree has interrupted South Korea's impressive track record of hosting major international events, including the Summer and Winter Olympics and the jointly hosted 2002 FIFA World Cup with Japan. These events have showcased South Korea's ability to organize and host global gatherings successfully. Despite this setback, it is worth mentioning that Busan is currently bidding to host the 2030 World Expo, which demonstrates South Korea's continued commitment to hosting and participating in significant international events.
In spite of the challenges posed by the typhoon and the subsequent need for evacuation, the South Korean government remains committed to offering alternative activities and K-pop performances, aiming to ensure that the scouts continue to have a pleasant and unforgettable experience. These alternative activities will help to maintain a positive atmosphere and provide entertainment for the scouts during this unexpected turn of events. It is commendable that efforts are being made to create a pleasant environment for the participants, despite the challenges faced.