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Monday, Mar 31, 2025
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Record Wildfires Ravage South Korea as Death Toll Rises
At least 26 confirmed dead and tens of thousands evacuated due to unprecedented wildfires across the country.
On March 27, 2025, South Korea is grappling with its most severe wildfire crisis in history, with at least 26 confirmed fatalities and extensive damage reported across multiple regions.
The wildfires have forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate their homes, and the destruction encompasses hundreds of buildings, including significant historical sites.
Firefighting efforts have mobilized thousands of personnel and numerous helicopters to combat the blazes, which have consumed approximately 35,810 hectares (88,488 acres) of land in the southeast, according to the government's disaster response center.
Korea Forest Service chief Lim Sang-seop noted that only a small amount of rain was anticipated, insufficient to aid in extinguishing the fires.
Among the casualties, the deaths include four firefighters and a pilot who perished in a helicopter crash during firefighting operations.
The majority of civilian fatalities reported are individuals in their 60s and 70s.
Injuries have also affected nearly 30 individuals, with officials reporting that about 320 buildings were destroyed, prompting the evacuation of over 24,200 people.
Fire investigators suspect human error has played a role in igniting multiple wildfires since last Friday, with incidents linked to recreational activities, such as grass clearing and welding.
The infernos have significantly impacted communities in Andong city, Uiseong, Sancheong, and the city of Ulsan, where conditions worsened due to strong winds and dry weather.
In Andong, evacuations were ordered for two villages, including Puncheon, adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hahoe folk village, founded in the 14th-15th century.
Authorities have expanded evacuation notices to hikers in scenic areas, such as Jiri Mountain, as fires spread nearby.
The most substantial wildfires, according to local authorities, had been brought under control in key areas earlier in the week; however, they have rekindled due to ongoing dry conditions and high winds.
Significant losses include residential homes, factories, vehicles, as well as historical structures.
In Uiseong, approximately two-thirds of the Gounsa temple complex, believed to date back to the 7th century, has been devastated by the flames.
Among the destroyed structures are two state-designated treasures, including a pavilion constructed in 1668 and a commemorative building from 1904.
The Korea Forest Service has elevated its wildfire warning to the highest level, necessitating increased emergency response efforts from local governments, stricter access regulations for forests and parks, and advisories for military units to suspend live-fire exercises.
The wildfires have forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate their homes, and the destruction encompasses hundreds of buildings, including significant historical sites.
Firefighting efforts have mobilized thousands of personnel and numerous helicopters to combat the blazes, which have consumed approximately 35,810 hectares (88,488 acres) of land in the southeast, according to the government's disaster response center.
Korea Forest Service chief Lim Sang-seop noted that only a small amount of rain was anticipated, insufficient to aid in extinguishing the fires.
Among the casualties, the deaths include four firefighters and a pilot who perished in a helicopter crash during firefighting operations.
The majority of civilian fatalities reported are individuals in their 60s and 70s.
Injuries have also affected nearly 30 individuals, with officials reporting that about 320 buildings were destroyed, prompting the evacuation of over 24,200 people.
Fire investigators suspect human error has played a role in igniting multiple wildfires since last Friday, with incidents linked to recreational activities, such as grass clearing and welding.
The infernos have significantly impacted communities in Andong city, Uiseong, Sancheong, and the city of Ulsan, where conditions worsened due to strong winds and dry weather.
In Andong, evacuations were ordered for two villages, including Puncheon, adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hahoe folk village, founded in the 14th-15th century.
Authorities have expanded evacuation notices to hikers in scenic areas, such as Jiri Mountain, as fires spread nearby.
The most substantial wildfires, according to local authorities, had been brought under control in key areas earlier in the week; however, they have rekindled due to ongoing dry conditions and high winds.
Significant losses include residential homes, factories, vehicles, as well as historical structures.
In Uiseong, approximately two-thirds of the Gounsa temple complex, believed to date back to the 7th century, has been devastated by the flames.
Among the destroyed structures are two state-designated treasures, including a pavilion constructed in 1668 and a commemorative building from 1904.
The Korea Forest Service has elevated its wildfire warning to the highest level, necessitating increased emergency response efforts from local governments, stricter access regulations for forests and parks, and advisories for military units to suspend live-fire exercises.
