The South Korean government has rebutted accusations of responsibility for the tumultuous World Scout Jamboree held last year, following findings from investigators attributing blame to the government.
During the event, which saw tens of thousands evacuated from the campsite due to issues with food and medical facilities, the Korean Scout Association and the government were criticized for their roles in organizing the jamboree, with allegations of sidelining the scout group and assuming primary responsibility.
However, the government has contested these assertions, asserting that it merely played a supportive role to the Korean Scout Association and denying any direct causation of the event’s failure.
The World Scout Jamboree, characterized as the largest global gathering of youth scouts held every four years, faced challenges from its inception during the sweltering August heat last year.
Amid temperatures reaching 40°C, reports emerged of scouts fainting due to insufficient food supplies. Additionally, the independent panel’s report highlighted inadequate medical facilities, including clinics lacking electricity and shortages of basic necessities such as saline solution.
The UK contingent withdrew over 4,500 child scouts from the event due to these issues, prompting similar actions from other participating countries.
The scathing report from investigators accused the South Korean government of misleading international and national scout organizations regarding the preparation status, citing significant deficiencies in safety, medical support, and core services promised.
Furthermore, the report highlighted structural and coordination complications exacerbated by the government’s assumed role as the de facto organizer.
Allegations of hindering the review process by withholding essential information were also levied against the Korean government, although officials have disputed these claims, stating they did not receive a request for information during the investigation period conducted by the World Scout Organization.
