South Korea is currently experiencing its most devastating wildfires in history, with at least 18 fatalities reported and ancient temples ravaged. As firefighters struggle against rapidly spreading flames and strong winds, the nation grapples with the aftermath of destruction affecting thousands.
South Korea Faces Catastrophic Wildfires with Heavy Casualties
South Korea Faces Catastrophic Wildfires with Heavy Casualties
Southeast region battles fierce fires resulting in over 18 deaths and destruction of historic sites, prompting mass evacuations.
South Korean fire crews are engaged in a fierce battle against some of the most severe wildfires the country has ever faced, according to statements from the acting president. The blazes, which have been raging for six days now, have claimed the lives of at least 18 individuals and severely injured nearly 20 more, largely affecting the elderly. Conditions of extreme dry weather, combined with strong winds, have enabled fires to spread across tens of thousands of acres in the country’s southeastern region.
Among the casualties are two ancient Buddhist temples, each over a millennium old, which were damaged as over 200 buildings succumbed to the flames, the government confirmed. Evacuations have impacted more than 27,000 residents, including the rapid transfer of around 500 inmates from a local prison.
As of Wednesday morning, eight fires were still burning, which is an increase from six on Monday. The most significant fire is located in Euiseong County, with crews reporting that they had managed to contain around 70% of the blaze despite facing wind speeds reaching 56 miles per hour that hindered aerial firefighting efforts.
The series of fires appears to have begun on Friday in Sancheong County and has since spread to nearby areas, originating from various ignition points including a possible lawn mower malfunction. Local officials and residents expressed frustration as they witnessed the ongoing destruction of their communities, with villagers from Andong Hahoe folk village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, resorting to calling the blaze “the devil” on social media platforms.
As they cope with the catastrophic effects, the South Korean government is reinforcing emergency services and has temporarily suspended transportation services in impacted areas, as electricity outage reports emerged in some regions. The Justice Ministry's immediate actions to transfer inmates reflect the high levels of concern for safety amidst this environmental crisis. As the nation continues to grapple with this tragedy, authorities remain committed to tackling the wildfire crisis and minimizing further damage.
Among the casualties are two ancient Buddhist temples, each over a millennium old, which were damaged as over 200 buildings succumbed to the flames, the government confirmed. Evacuations have impacted more than 27,000 residents, including the rapid transfer of around 500 inmates from a local prison.
As of Wednesday morning, eight fires were still burning, which is an increase from six on Monday. The most significant fire is located in Euiseong County, with crews reporting that they had managed to contain around 70% of the blaze despite facing wind speeds reaching 56 miles per hour that hindered aerial firefighting efforts.
The series of fires appears to have begun on Friday in Sancheong County and has since spread to nearby areas, originating from various ignition points including a possible lawn mower malfunction. Local officials and residents expressed frustration as they witnessed the ongoing destruction of their communities, with villagers from Andong Hahoe folk village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, resorting to calling the blaze “the devil” on social media platforms.
As they cope with the catastrophic effects, the South Korean government is reinforcing emergency services and has temporarily suspended transportation services in impacted areas, as electricity outage reports emerged in some regions. The Justice Ministry's immediate actions to transfer inmates reflect the high levels of concern for safety amidst this environmental crisis. As the nation continues to grapple with this tragedy, authorities remain committed to tackling the wildfire crisis and minimizing further damage.
