The Ministry of Environment in Korea has announced its plan to revolutionize flood safety with the launch of an AI-powered early warning system. This system, set to be implemented ahead of the summer flood season, aims to enhance public safety and prevent casualties. The decision comes after the devastating floods last year, which resulted in 14 fatalities due to the inundation of an underpass in Osong, North Chungcheong Province.
“With ‘smart forecasting,’ we will expand the deployment of artificial intelligence forecasting across the country beginning with this year’s flood season,” said Environment Minister Han Hwa-jin. The system will provide location-specific messages and navigation guidance services to both residents in flood-prone areas and passing vehicles. In the event of an emergency, alerts will be sent to relevant response organizations, such as local government officials, fire, and police departments. This will enable the formation of a flood response group for efficient handling of the situation.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the number of alert points will be increased from the current 75 to 223. These alert systems will be installed near larger rivers, streams, and tributaries nationwide. Additionally, new dams will be built in 10 different locations as part of the flood prevention infrastructure. Maintenance of tributaries and rainwater tunnels in cities will also be prioritized.
This plan is a significant component of the ministry’s major policy initiative for 2024, which focuses on three key areas: public safety, future growth engines, and environmental services. Alongside enhancing flood safety, the ministry aims to strengthen national competitiveness by promoting a carbon-neutral and circular economy. It plans to support the installation and replacement of greenhouse gas reduction facilities with an investment of up to 127.7 billion won ($95.6 million) to reduce companies' emissions. Recycling standards for used electric vehicle batteries and cooking oil waste will also be established to promote circular utilization.
Furthermore, the ministry aims to promote green industries as a future growth engine for the country. It plans to expand its investment in green industries by 4.7 trillion won, with a target of achieving a cumulative investment of 30 trillion won within the current government’s term. This investment will also contribute to revitalizing local economies by creating three Green Convergence Clusters in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province; Haenam, South Jeolla Province; and Boryeong, South Chungcheong Province by 2028. Each cluster will focus on different environmental assets based on the surrounding environment.
The growth in green industries is expected to result in a 10% increase in exports each year, with an estimated revenue of up to 22 trillion won this year. The ministry plans to further increase this number to up to 100 trillion won within the current government’s term.
The announcement of Korea’s AI-powered early warning system marks a significant step forward in flood safety. By combining the power of artificial intelligence and extensive infrastructure development, the ministry aims to protect its citizens and minimize the impact of natural disasters. The focus on public safety, future growth engines, and environmental services demonstrates the country’s commitment to sustainable development and creating a resilient society. With these initiatives, Korea sets an example for the rest of the world in leveraging technology and innovation for the betterment of its people and the environment.
As Minister Han Hwa-jin aptly puts it, “To ensure a golden time for the prevention of casualties through ‘smart forecasting,’ we will expand the deployment of artificial intelligence forecasting across the country beginning with this year’s flood season.” With an unwavering dedication to its people’s safety, Korea embraces the future with ingenuity and resilience, ready to face any challenges that come its way.
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