The Busan Metropolitan Government is supporting the installation of flood barriers to protect homes, shops and underground spaces ahead of the full-scale monsoon season.
Busan said Wednesday it is pushing ahead with a flood barrier installation support project, in cooperation with its districts and counties, focused on low-lying residential areas and commercial districts to prevent flooding damage. After allocating 200 million won in project funds to its 16 districts and counties earlier this year, the city plans to accelerate on-site outreach and application intake to complete installations before the rainy season.
The project is a prevention-focused policy designed to respond to recent recurring torrential rains and sudden flooding damage. Flood barriers, also known as water-blocking panels, are anti-flooding facilities that block rainwater from flowing into building entrances during heavy downpours. They are considered a representative everyday disaster response tool because they are relatively easy to install and remove while offering strong flood prevention effects. Public interest has been growing as the barriers are also widely used in underground parking lots of apartment complexes, in addition to homes and shops.
Each district and county is currently conducting on-site surveys and accepting applications, focusing on areas vulnerable to flooding. Eligible properties include homes, shops and apartment complexes at risk of flooding, with applications open not only to building owners but also to managers and tenants. Up to 90 percent of installation costs can be subsidized, significantly reducing the burden on residents.
The city plans to strengthen on-site outreach through community service centers and local volunteer disaster prevention groups, and provide intensive guidance to residents in areas with a history of flooding.
"The scale of flooding damage varies greatly depending on advance preparation, so we hope citizens will actively apply for the flood barrier installation support project," said Kim Ki-hwan, head of Busan's Citizen Safety Office.
