Gangwon Province Sets New Standard for Water Safety: Record Low Fatalities Reported
Gangwon Province, South Korea – In a remarkable achievement for public safety, Gangwon Province has announced a stunning 33% decrease in water-related fatalities this summer, marking the lowest number of deaths recorded since the province began tracking these statistics. This breaking news comes as a beacon of hope for water recreation enthusiasts and highlights the effectiveness of proactive safety measures. The success is particularly noteworthy given a record number of visitors flocked to the region’s rivers, valleys, and beaches amidst a hotter-than-average summer.
Record Visitor Numbers, Record Safety: A Winning Combination
Despite an 11.3% increase in beach visitors compared to the previous year – fueled by a summer average temperature of 25.7°C (0.1°C warmer than 2024) and prolonged heat – Gangwon Province managed to reduce water safety fatalities from 15 in 2024 to just 10 in 2025. This continues a three-year downward trend: 27 fatalities in 2023, 15 in 2024, and now a historic low of 10. What’s truly exceptional is that no fatal accidents occurred within the province’s 423 designated river and valley water play areas, or its 86 beaches – a first for Gangwon Province.
The ‘2025 Summer Water Safety Comprehensive Measures’: A Blueprint for Success
The dramatic improvement isn’t a matter of luck. Governor Kim Jin-tae’s administration implemented a systematic approach dubbed the ‘2025 Summer Water Safety Comprehensive Measures.’ This proactive strategy involved a multi-faceted approach, beginning with thorough inspections and repairs of safety infrastructure during the preparatory period (May 1-30). Old safety signage was replaced, life jacket rental shops were checked, and all 2,346 forecasting and warning facilities were rigorously inspected. Crucially, safety personnel received enhanced training.
Recognizing the extended heatwave, the province also extended the water safety measure period by a month, operating for four months (June 1 – September 30). A total of 1,338 safety personnel – 675 stationed at inland water sites and 663 at coastal areas – were deployed. A ‘special measure period’ (July 15 – August 17) saw joint inspection teams from the province and local municipalities actively promoting life jacket use and conducting on-site safety checks every weekend.
Unmanaged Waters: The Remaining Challenge & Future Plans
Analysis revealed a critical insight: all 10 fatalities occurred in unmanaged waterside areas – locations without dedicated safety personnel. This finding is prompting a significant shift in strategy. Gangwon Province plans to intensify inspections of these unmanaged areas starting next year, and to expand the responsibility system for city and county public officials, coupled with increased budgetary support for safety management personnel. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and a dedication to protecting all visitors.
Beyond Gangwon: Lessons in Water Safety for All
The success in Gangwon Province offers valuable lessons for other regions grappling with water safety challenges. The key takeaways include the importance of proactive infrastructure maintenance, comprehensive personnel training, extended safety periods during prolonged heatwaves, and a targeted focus on high-risk areas. For individuals planning water activities, the message is clear: always wear a life jacket, heed warning signs, and choose designated swimming areas whenever possible. Understanding local currents and weather conditions is also paramount.
Yeo Joong-hyup, Executive Governor of Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, expressed his gratitude to the collaborative efforts of the province, cities, counties, coast guard, and related organizations. “We will do our best to ensure that everyone who visits water attractions in the province can enjoy them safely next year,” he affirmed. This commitment signals a continued dedication to making Gangwon Province a safe and enjoyable destination for all.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on water safety initiatives and travel news.
Source: Sports Donga
