The contingents from the United States, United Kingdom, and Singapore have departed from the campsite of the World Scout Jamboree due to the scorching heatwave in South Korea. The photo above showcases the scene captured by Yonhap.
Aug. 5 (UPI) — On Saturday, amidst the intense heatwave engulfing South Korea, the contingents from the United States, United Kingdom, and Singapore confirmed their departure from the World Scout Jamboree campsite.
According to reports, approximately 43,000 scouts from 158 countries had gathered for the event. However, due to the soaring temperatures, at least 600 teenagers required medical treatment by Thursday, as mentioned by officials.
The British scouts, with 4,500 members, represented the largest contingent present at the Jamboree. The temperatures soared past 100 degrees Fahrenheit in certain regions of South Korea, marking the most significant heatwave to hit the country in four years.
“We understand that this may be disappointing for some, and therefore, we will continue the jamboree experience in Seoul. We will be working closely with Korean authorities to organize a program of activities, ensuring our young people still derive the utmost benefit from their time in Korea,” stated the British Scouts in a press release on Saturday.
In an email sent to parents, the U.S. scouts announced their decision to depart from the 25th World Scout Jamboree site due to the extreme weather conditions and their resulting impact, as mentioned in a report by The Guardian.
The World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) has called upon the Korean government and host authorities to fulfill their commitments by allocating additional financial and human resources. The WOSM emphasizes that the health and safety of all participants should remain the topmost priority.
Choi Chang-haeng, secretary general of the Jamboree’s organizing committee, mentioned that excessive enthusiasm for musical acts may have contributed to the heat-related health issues faced by the attendees.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo confirmed that the South Korean government held a meeting and decided to continue the event without any interruption. According to Han, the officials believe they have provided “sufficient” support, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
To tackle the heatwave’s impact, South Korean authorities have mobilized 104 additional air-conditioned buses, 60 extra medical professionals, and 700 personnel to manage shower facilities.
