Lee designates flood-hit Geoje, Tongyeong as special disaster zones

President Lee Jae Myung has proclaimed certain regions within the southeastern cities of Geoje and Tongyeong as special disaster zones, following severe flooding that devastated the area. This designation, announced by a presidential spokesperson on Friday, grants these zones access to government-backed financial assistance for reconstruction efforts.

President Lee convened the first meeting of his administration at Cheong Wa Dae on Friday to discuss comprehensive pan-government strategies aimed at tackling corruption, which includes addressing issues related to government contracts and actions taken by former officials.

The torrential rainfall that hit South Gyeongsang Province over the weekend was particularly intense, with over 800 millimeters of rain falling. This heavy downpour led to a landslide in Geoje that tragically resulted in one resident's death. In addition to the immediate disaster relief measures, the government is currently evaluating the possibility of expanding the special disaster zone designation to other affected areas, pending a thorough review of the damage.

The affected regions are not only receiving financial support but also benefits like tax reductions and utility fee discounts for residents. Efforts to restore affected areas are being undertaken on a full-scale, utilizing all available resources.