South Korea Battles Deadliest Wildfire in History
Seoul, South Korea – Firefighters in South Korea are struggling to contain the nation’s most devastating wildfire, which has already claimed at least 27 lives and left 32 others injured, some critically. The country’s interior ministry confirmed the fatalities, with most victims reported to be in their 60s and 70s.
Fire Sparks and Rapid Spread
The wildfire, which erupted nearly a week ago in Sancheong County, is believed to have been accidentally ignited by human activities. Officials suspect that a lighter found near a family grave site may have sparked the flames, while other fires in the region were possibly caused by welding sparks or the burning of rubbish.
Strong winds and dry weather have fueled the blaze, causing it to spread rapidly across multiple counties, including Uiseong, where the most intense fire is currently raging. Authorities report that over 35,810 hectares (88,500 acres) of land—almost half the size of New York City—have been scorched.
Cultural and Historical Losses
The destruction extends beyond human casualties and property damage, with South Korea’s cultural heritage also under threat. The Gounsa Temple, built in 618 AD and considered one of the largest and most significant Buddhist temples in the region, has been reduced to ashes. Forestry officials also confirmed the loss of a Joseon Dynasty-era national treasure.
Authorities are taking urgent measures to safeguard valuable artefacts, including wooden printing blocks and paintings, relocating them from major temples. They are also monitoring two UNESCO-listed sites—Hahoe Village and Byeongsan Seowon in Andong City—to prevent further destruction.
Mass Evacuations and Chaos
Tens of thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes as the fires continue to spread. Survivors describe scenes of devastation, with entire villages reduced to rubble.
Kwon Young-chang, a 35-year-old resident of Andong, recounted his harrowing experience. “The smoke filled my neighborhood, forcing me to flee north. The damage in Andong is heartbreaking, and many of our neighbors are in deep despair.”
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her tragic loss. “Our house, which my family lived in for over 30 years, burned down in just a few hours. There’s nothing left.”
In Cheongsong County, a beekeeper named Jang Jung-suk described the destruction of her business. “We had been building this for five years, and now it’s all gone. My husband couldn’t hold back his tears.”
The Climate Crisis and Future Concerns
While human activities may have ignited the fires, experts warn that climate change is exacerbating wildfire conditions. South Korea is experiencing above-average temperatures, coupled with dry ground, strong winds, and low humidity, all of which have made the situation worse.
Lee Han-gyeong, the government official overseeing emergency response efforts, acknowledged the alarming trend. “We are witnessing the reality of the climate crisis like never before.”
As South Korea battles to control the fires, emergency responders continue their efforts to protect lives, property, and the nation’s cultural heritage. The situation remains critical, with authorities urging residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders as necessary.
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South Korea Battles Deadliest Wildfire in History