Nationwide civil defense drill slated for Thursday

On Wednesday, the interior ministry announced a nationwide civil defense drill simulating an enemy air raid that will take place later this week. The drill will last for 20 minutes, beginning at 2 p.m. on Thursday, according to the ministry. The drill will follow the sequence of an air raid warning, a preliminary warning, and an all-clear signal, the ministry further explained.

When the air raid siren sounds at precisely 2 p.m., individuals are required to seek shelter at the nearest civil defense facilities or a nearby underground space. At 2:15 p.m., the preliminary warning will be issued, allowing evacuees to leave the shelters and move around while remaining vigilant. The drill will conclude at 2:20 p.m., when the warning is lifted.

Civil defense shelters have been established at around 17,000 locations throughout the country, including underground parking lots in apartment buildings, subway stations, and underground shopping malls. To minimize public disruption, major facilities such as hospitals, subway systems, railways, aircraft, and ships will continue to operate as usual during the drill, as stated by the ministry.

Foreigners visiting the country will be provided with information regarding the drill.