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Ethnic Koreans have instantly lost the foundations of their livelihood in hurricane Katrina because their homes, offices and shops are completely inundated, Chun Tae-il, the former head of the Korean association of New Orleans on Thursday, told the Chosun Ilbo by telephone from Baton Rouge, where he has taken refuge from the waters. Excerpts from the interview follow.
What's the situation now in New Orleans?
Being unable to access the scene, we only learn about the situation from television and other media. The Kenner and Metairie areas of New Orleans, where most Koreans are clustered, are submerged under nearly two meters of water with homes, offices and shops all inundated.
Are Korean residents there safe?
I understand most of them have been evacuated. But it is difficult to assess the exact damage because of a lack of communication.
How big do you suppose is the damage ethnic Koreans have sustained?
All have essentially but lost the basis of their livelihood. With their houses, furniture, offices and shops submerged in one morning, they have lost everything. Those who are insured against floods can expect compensation, but there must be many ethnic Koreans who haven't done so.
(englishnews@chosun.com )
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