Unless you’ve been living under a rock somewhere on Seoraksan, you are likely well aware that there was a massive oil spill on the west coast near Taean and affecting a total of six cities in the vicinity: Seosan, Boryeong, Seocheon, Hongseong and Dangjin in addition to the primary location at Taean.
The Korea Herald is reporting the devastating effects on the lives of the locals:
“Our means of livelihood were completely shattered. What should be an attractive resort suddenly looks like stinking roads covered with asphalt. There are no black-colored snails or seagulls that we have used as a barometer to determine the quality of the beach water,” said the 65-year-old man [Lee Hee-yul, who runs a beachfront seafood restaurant and serves as Mallipo Beach's headman].
“I have been taking sedatives to maintain my composure and to speak on villagers’ behalf. The residents here, most making their living on tourism and maritime resources, are now caught in a serious struggle to survive, with nothing to fall back on. I am sure it will take well over 10 years to get back to normal,” he added woefully.
Helping Out
If you’re looking to help out there are several ways to get involved being coordinated through Expat Helping Hands based out of Cheonan-Asan by some very dedicated people (a few of whom did some great work for Socius in the past). This weekend will see a trip to the coast to help clean up the spill.
Preface: We believe that a one day commitment (especially for those working during the week) is the best practice. The first EHH clean-up crews will go out on Saturday, December 15th and Sunday, December 16th. Those that decide to do 2 days will be accommodated.
Instructions for Volunteering
- Pick the day you wish to volunteer for—make sure you can be in Asan by 7 am (KTX is very convenient—CheonanAsan KTX Station), but express bus works as well also.
- Then email the name(s), email address(es) and telephone number(s) of the volunteer(s) and the selected date to Thom Walls atthomwalls2002@yahoo.ca
010-5848-0305.- Please advise Thom if you want to do a 2 day stint as accommodations will need to be arranged.
- Once Thom confirms with you, please be prepared with warm clothing to work in and a change of clothing for after your work shift. Also bring a plastic bag in which to dispose of your work clothes (they are unlikely to be salvageable).
- If you plan to work a two day shift bring the usual toiletries and some things to entertain yourself for the overnight. It would not hurt to pack some high carb snacks for the day.
This is far from an easy task, however. It’s physically and emotionally draining, and if you’re looking to go, EHH has some information from people on the ground on what to expect.
Making a Financial Contribution
Not everyone will have the time or desire to physically pitch in but still want to contribute to the effort. For these people EHH has opened a bank account where they are accepting donations- 100% of which will go directly to the project. Here are the details on donations:
Preface: All work is done by volunteers. No one is getting paid for their work. Rest assured that 100% of your donations will go directly to the clean up efforts involved in and around Padori, Korea.
How to Donate from within Korea
- Go to any ATM that allows money transfers.
- Insert your ATM card
- Select Transfer
- Select the Bank: Shinhan ì‹ í•œ, reference number 88
- Enter the Bank Account Number: 110-230-596076
- Confirm account Thom Walls (it’s currently in Thom’s name)
- Enter transfer amount (any amount will be appreciated)
- Enter your account PIN number
- Confirm transfer
The account is open and working properly as of 13:00 KST on Wednesday Dec. 12.
Other Contributions
If you have something else to offer- skills, connections, etc – get in touch with the organizers of EHH by sending them an email: expat.helpinghands@gmail.com .
