South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has taken swift action to provide relief for participants of a global scout event in his country, as hundreds of teenagers have fallen ill due to the intense heat. To combat this heatwave, President Yoon has ordered the deployment of air-conditioned buses and water trucks to the event site.
The World Scout Jamboree, which started on Tuesday in southwestern Buan, has already seen approximately 600 people seeking medical treatment for heat-related ailments. This alarming situation has unfolded alongside the government’s highest-level heat warning in the last four years, as temperatures in some areas exceeded 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit) this week.
To ensure the well-being of the participants, President Yoon has requested an “unlimited” supply of buses where they can rest and cool down. Additionally, water trucks will be dispatched to provide hydration in the scorching weather. These measures aim to alleviate the adverse effects of heat on the scouts.
In addition to addressing the immediate needs of the participants, President Yoon has also instructed officials to enhance the quality of food provided at the event. He has emphasized coordination among all government agencies to address any issues that may arise at the campsite.
The World Scout Jamboree is witnessing the gathering of more than 43,000 participants, predominantly scouts aged between 14 and 18. This event marks the first global gathering of scouts since the onset of the pandemic, contributing to its significance.