Han River plunge draws ire

A group of apparently foreign men caused controversy after climbing over the railing of Seoul’s Banpo Bridge and jumping into the Han River. Videos shared online showed the men swimming in the river and eventually getting out of the water. No injuries or accidents were seen in the videos, although 119 rescue personnel were nearby.

Some people criticized the men's actions because jumping into the Han River can be dangerous. Others pointed out that swimming in urban rivers is a common summer activity in some countries. For example, people in Switzerland sometimes jump from a historic stone bridge into the Verzasca River. In Seoul, there is no specific law completely banning swimming or diving in the Han River, but certain water leisure activities are prohibited in designated areas.

The Seoul city government has been working with police since April to prevent dangerous swimming and illegal water leisure activities. Safety officers patrol areas of the river and warn people about the risks when they see them entering the water. The campaign is scheduled to continue until the end of October.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source: https://m.koreaherald.com/article/10895677?

Comprehension

Where did the men jump into the water?
What did the videos show the men doing after they jumped into the river?
Were any accidents or injuries seen in the videos?
What does the Water Leisure Safety Act prohibit in certain areas of the Han River?
Until when will Seoul's campaign against risky swimming and illegal water activities continue?

Discussion

Do you think jumping from a bridge into a river is dangerous? Why?
Why do you think some people enjoy jumping or swimming in rivers?
Would you ever swim in an urban river? Why or why not?
Should cities completely ban swimming in rivers?
What should people check before swimming in a river or lake?
Do you think warning people is enough to prevent dangerous activities?
Why might an activity be considered normal in one country but dangerous in another?
Have you ever done an exciting outdoor activity that involved some risk?
Should people be punished for dangerous activities if they do not hurt anyone?
What can cities do to make recreational activities near rivers safer?

Vocabulary

controversy — public disagreement or argument about something
railing — a barrier or fence designed to prevent people from falling
plunge — to jump or fall quickly into water or another place
footage — recorded video of an event
designated — officially chosen for a particular purpose
prohibit — to officially stop or forbid something
crack down on — to take stronger action against illegal or unacceptable behavior