Today in South Korea
World Scout Jamboree continue | Stabbings | PM visit to Jamboree |Elderly living alone | Booking.com |
World Scout Jamboree Continues Despite U.S., U.K. Withdrawals Amid Heat Wave
The World Scout Jamboree proceeded on Saturday despite the withdrawal of U.S. and British Scouts due to challenging conditions like heat and the spread of coronavirus. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo reiterated Seoul's commitment to supporting the event, despite difficulties since its opening in the Saemangeum reclamation area.
Police to Increase Patrols, Stop and Searches After Recent Stabbings
Following a series of stabbing incidents, National Police Agency Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun announced the initiation of a "special policing" operation. The police will be more present in public areas, will perform stop-and-search operations on suspicious individuals, and are prepared to use physical force to prevent further incidents.
PM Visits Site of World Scout Jamboree
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo visited the 25th World Scout Jamboree's campsite in the Saemangeum reclamation area in Buan, North Jeolla Province. He spent time with attendees and participated in activities at the event.
Record High of Elderly Koreans Living Alone
An alarming record was set as over 20% of elderly Koreans live alone. Statistics Korea reports 1.97 million out of 9.04 million people aged 65 or older lived alone as of November 2022. The rising number of elderly citizens coincides with the country's increasing elderly poverty rate, which is the world's highest at 40.4% as of 2020.
Booking.com's 'Ultimate K-pop Experience in Seoul'
Online travel platform Booking.com is offering a special journey to Seoul for one lucky K-pop fan and their guest in August. The package includes a stay at a trendy lifestyle hotel in Hongdae, tickets to a live music show, and a private K-pop dance lesson, among other activities.