Today, August 23rd, South Korea carried out a crucial nationwide civil defense drill as a direct response to the mounting threats emanating from North Korea. The 20-minute exercise, which commenced at 2 p.m., is a significant event, being the first drill of this magnitude involving the general public in over six years.
Upon initiation, minute-long air-raid sirens echoed across the nation, coupled with the dispatch of public safety alert messages to citizens’ mobile phones, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Citizens were promptly directed to evacuate to the nearest designated civil defense shelter. As of December of the previous year, South Korea has marked an impressive 17,483 locations, including subway platforms and underground malls, as official civil defense sanctuaries. Those not in the vicinity of designated sites were advised to find refuge in any available enclosed underground spaces.
Outdoor activities were paused until 2:15 p.m., and drivers on restricted roads during the drill were instructed to park their vehicles on the right side and tune into the radio for further directives.
Air travel and subway services operated without interruptions. However, a unique protocol required subway and train passengers to remain on platforms throughout the duration of the drill.
Upon reaching the shelters, attendees were provided with a set of emergency guidelines that detailed essential items to keep on hand in case of emergencies. From 2:15 p.m. onwards, the public was granted the liberty to engage in outdoor activities but with an emphasis on maintaining vigilance. The drill concluded at 2:20 p.m., with the general public being informed via broadcast systems and emergency text alerts.
The ministry previously collaborated with high-traffic establishments, like cinemas and department stores, to encourage maximum participation in this critical exercise.
It’s noteworthy that fifty-seven regions, encompassing cities and counties in the Chungcheong, North Jeolla, and South Jeolla territories, were exempted from today’s drill. This decision was based on their recent categorization as special disaster zones following severe rainfalls and the aftermath of Typhoon Khanun.
Specialized exercises were also conducted in areas neighboring the demilitarized zone, including the West Sea’s five islands and Yeongjong Island in Incheon.
The extensive exercise serves as a reminder of the ever-present challenges from North Korea and the nation’s unwavering dedication to preparedness.
