South Korean media: Up to 1,500 dead in floods in North Korea
The government in Seoul remained tight-lipped, officially stating only with regard to the isolated neighboring country: "Heavy rainfall has resulted in a significant number of casualties." North Korea had experienced record-breaking rainfall in recent weeks.
Videos released this week showed Kim Jong Un, the country's leader, navigating flooded areas in a dinghy and, according to Pyongyang, overseeing rescue operations using military helicopters. However, North Korean state media did not report any deaths. Previously, Kim had criticized officials for failing to prepare the country for the rainfall, according to the state news agency KCNA.
The floods in North Korea have led to extensive damage, submerging several urban areas. Despite the challenges, Kim Jong Un continues to lead relief efforts, coordinating rescue operations.
