Scouting organization expresses concern over conditions at World Scout Jamboree in South Korea

The head of the scouting organization expressed concern regarding the difficulties faced at the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea last July. Over 100 Icelandic scouts attended the event, which was marred by poor conditions, including dirty restrooms, bugs, and insufficient food. Heavy rains left the campsite flooded, forcing participants to set up tents on plastic pallets to avoid the standing water.

The high costs associated with these conditions were attributed to the lack of preparedness by South Korean authorities which had organized the event. Harpa Ósk Valgeirsdóttir, head scout, lamented the situation, noting that the experience was particularly hard on young volunteers who had exerted great effort to care for the children, sacrificing their own rest. While most of the children still had memorable experiences, many described the conditions as unbearable, with some requiring hospital visits.

Further disputes have arisen concerning the financial management of the event. The cost of attendance was significantly higher than in previous years, with each child paying approximately 700,000 kronur. As tensions grew, over 70 parents issued a statement of no confidence urging the scout council to reject the financial reports for the year. Harpa responded to the criticisms by stating that many inaccuracies were presented in reports about the trip.

The South Korean scouting organization has since apologized for the shortcomings, and the international scout movement has implemented changes to ensure such issues do not recur in future jamborees, with the next one scheduled for Poland in 2027.