South Korea faces a deepening drought crisis in Gangneung, Gangwon Province, where water scarcity has reached alarming levels. President Lee Jae Myung declared a “state of national disaster” after reservoir levels dropped to historic lows. This marks the first time the nation has used such a declaration for a natural disaster.
The Obong Reservoir, which provides nearly 87 percent of Gangneung’s household supply, fell below the 15 percent safety threshold. By early Sunday morning, levels reached just 14.9 percent. Consequently, officials shut off most household meters and halted agricultural water supplies.
Because of the worsening conditions, the central government mobilized fire department water tankers to deliver emergency supplies. Authorities announced that 2,000 tons of water will be distributed daily to households. Additionally, a government-led support group has been established to coordinate response measures and reduce inconvenience for residents.
The water scarcity crisis highlights the growing vulnerability of Gangneung’s water management system. Experts call this a “flash drought,” caused by extreme heat and limited rainfall. This year, the city has received only 40 percent of its average precipitation. With no significant rain expected in the coming weeks, the Obong Reservoir could fall to just 9.7 percent capacity within a month.
Gangneung has faced recurring drought problems for decades. Past shortages forced severe rationing, while sudden downpours offered only temporary relief. The city’s geography worsens the challenge since it lies east of the Taebaek Mountains and receives less rainfall than the western regions. Heavy rain often arrives during typhoons but quickly drains into the sea, offering little long-term benefit.
Dependence on the Obong Reservoir also leaves the city exposed. Unlike larger dams, it lacks storage capacity, and rising heat waves dry it faster. Proposals to redirect water from Doam Dam in Pyeongchang have sparked protests from civic groups worried about pollution and environmental damage. Despite opposition, alternative long-term solutions remain scarce, and authorities have avoided decisive action.
Experts argue that Gangneung must embrace sustainable water strategies rather than rely only on emergency drought measures. Seoul National University professor Han Moo-young recommends rainwater harvesting as a viable option. He noted that the city receives nearly 1.5 billion tons of annual rainfall, but most of it flows into the sea. By collecting rainwater from rooftops of large facilities such as schools and gyms, Gangneung could diversify its sources and reduce reliance on reservoirs.
Water scarcity in Gangneung demonstrates the urgent need for systemic change. Without long-term solutions, the cycle of drought will continue to threaten residents and the local economy. The government now faces growing pressure to move beyond short-term fixes and commit to sustainable water management.
