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After a Herculean evacuation effort, Australia's 900 scouts and leaders have safely arrived in Seoul in what has become a World Scout Jamboree marred by extreme weather and infrastructure challenges.
Key points:
- A convoy of more than 1,014 buses has transported scouts from 156 countries to emergency accommodation
- Ahead of the Typhoon Kaunun, 40,000 jamboree participants have been taken across eight South Korean provinces
- Two NSW scouts say they're still having fun and are grateful for the modern amenities in the hotel
The World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) confirmed on Tuesday night that nearly 40,000 participants safely departed from the 25th World Scout Jamboree campsite in Saemangeum ahead of the forecast Typhoon Khaunun.
A convoy of more than 1,014 buses filled the 10 square kilometres campsite to transport the scout contingents from 156 countries to emergency accommodation across South Korea.
"Today, scouts have once again demonstrated true leadership, determination and teamwork in the face of adversity, putting their skills to good use during this challenging situation," WOSM secretary-general Ahmad Alhendawi said.
After waking at 4am to decamp ahead of their five-hour bus journey to Seoul, Australia's scouts arrived at their hotel accommodation late Tuesday night.
In a media briefing Wednesday afternoon, Lee Sang-min, South Korean Minister of the Interior and Safety, said the jamboree participants were "dispersed and accommodated" across eight provinces.
"Measures have been implemented to ensure that jamboree participants, who were fatigued due to urgent evacuation preparations, can find comfortable rest in the provided accommodations," Mr Sang-min said.
"After a hearty breakfast, participants have commenced engaging in experiential programs organised by local government authorities since this morning."
Scouts welcome air-con, refrigeration
After six nights camping in extreme heat and humidity, Australia's scouts are said to have rejoiced when they saw clean floors, flushing toilets and hot showers in their hotel rooms.
New South Wales scouts from the Illawarra region, Ainslie and Emily, say they are grateful for the modern amenities offered in their hotel room.
"The best thing about getting to the hotel has been the air conditioning, the washing machine and the shower," Ainslie said.
"And the proper fridge," added Emily.
The experienced 15-year-old venturer scouts said it was a relief to return to the comforts of Seoul after enduring the oppressive heat at the Saemangeum campsite, and they were looking forward to finding a pool for a swim.
"The hardest things at the campsite were dealing with the heat and staying clean," Ainslie said.
"Everything was sandy, and it was so hot," Emily added.
"Every time we'd put sunscreen on, it felt like we were exfoliating because we were just covered in sand."
Sanitation concerns
The jamboree's organisation and infrastructure have come under increased criticism, with reports of inadequate sanitation, medical support and food, along with an insufficient response to the heatwave, which saw hundreds of teenagers treated for heat-related illnesses.
Prior to the emergency evacuation, the UK Scouts and the Boy Scouts of America pulled out of the event.
The UK Scouts chief executive Matt Hyde told the BBC relocating its 4,500 scouts and leaders cost the organisation 1 million pounds ($AU1.9 million).
"We feel let down by the organisers," Mr Hyde said.
"We repeatedly raised some of these concerns before we went, and during, and we were promised things were going to be put in place, and they weren't."
The leaders of Australia's contingent told the ABC the South Korean government rectified their concerns.
Aussies still all smiles
Despite sunburn, unappealing food and cancelled activities, Ainslie and Emily say their jamboree experience remains fun and memorable.
Socialising with scouts from across the world and swapping scouting badges and scarves are among their highlights.
"I've loved making friends and our 'black market' trading schemes," Ainslie said.
"My highlight was our patrol giving a scout from Ireland a mullet. And meeting new people," Emily said.
Australia's scouts will remain in Seoul, where they can explore the city with their new international friends until Friday, when the 10-day jamboree officially concludes.
And as for what they're most looking forward to about getting back on home soil — familiar food.
"I want a good, unmelted Tim Tam. And cooler weather," Ainslie said.
"I just want some Aussie beef snags," Emily added.