Scouts chief slams lack of hygiene at South Korea jamboree as teenager tells of snakes and children fainting

The British Scouting Chief has criticized the organizers of the World Jamboree in South Korea after reports of chaotic scenes and safety concerns arose. One parent described children fainting in extreme heat and even finding a snake under his daughter’s bed. The British contingent was forced to leave the event as organizers decided to evacuate tens of thousands of youngsters due to a looming typhoon. Matt Hyde, the chief executive of UK Scouts, cited concerns over extreme heat, sanitation, and food as reasons for the withdrawal of over 4,000 scouts. He criticized the cleanliness of the toilets and spoke about the lack of food available for those with dietary requirements. Mr. Hyde also expressed concerns about the medical services and heat relief measures. In a statement, he expressed feeling let down by the jamboree organizers and mentioned that UK Scouts would financially struggle for years after spending £1m on evacuations.

Olaf Clayton’s daughter, Gabriela, had saved money for 18 months to attend the jamboree, but faced worsening sanitary and climatic conditions. Kids were fainting from the heat, and all activities were canceled. Gabriela even found a snake under her bed, but thankfully the Bangladeshi scouts knew how to deal with it. The British attendees have been relocated to Seoul, where the jamboree will continue. However, due to Typhoon Khanun, around 36,000 participants will be taken to safer areas. South Korean officials stressed that the event will continue in a different location. The organizers have faced criticism for not anticipating the heat, and the provincial governor issued an apology for the lack of preparation. More medics, water trucks, and air conditioners were sent to the campsite. Each UK scout spent around £3,500 on the trip, relying on fundraising or donations.

Parents and the public have called for an independent inquiry into the jamboree, and the British Scouting Chief emphasized that lessons need to be learned. Over 40,000 people from 155 nations attended the event, and the next World Scout Jamboree is set to be hosted by Poland in 2027. The Independent has reached out to the Korea Scout Association for comment.