At least 18 people have died and 19 others injured as devastating wildfires continue to spread across southeastern South Korea, according to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.
The “unprecedented” crisis, described by acting President Han Duck-soo as the worst wildfire disaster in the nation’s history, has forced the evacuation of more than 23,000 people and destroyed several cultural heritage sites, including a 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple.
Wildfire Disaster Escalates, Crisis Declared
Thousands of firefighters and military personnel, along with US military helicopters stationed in South Korea, have been deployed to contain the infernos. However, strong winds and dry conditions continue to fuel the blazes, making firefighting efforts extremely challenging.
On Tuesday, South Korea’s National Fire Agency raised the crisis level to its highest—the first time such an alert has been issued this year.
“This level of wildfire damage is unlike anything we’ve experienced before,” Han stated.
Firefighting Helicopter Crashes Amid Rescue Efforts
Authorities confirmed that a firefighting helicopter crashed in the mountains of Uiseong County shortly after midday on Wednesday. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Meanwhile, the raging wildfires have burned approximately 17,000 hectares of forest, making it the third-largest wildfire disaster in South Korea’s history in terms of area destroyed.
Historic Cultural Sites Reduced to Ashes
The fires have destroyed several significant landmarks, including:
🔹 Gounsa Temple, a 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple built in 618 AD.
🔹 A national treasure from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), confirmed lost by forestry authorities.
Government Pledges Stronger Wildfire Prevention
Han assured the public that all available resources are being deployed to combat the fires. However, meteorologists predict little rainfall, with only 5-10mm expected on Thursday, offering limited relief.
“We were desperately hoping for rain today or tomorrow to help extinguish the flames,” Han added.
Once the crisis is under control, Han stated the government would review shortcomings in the wildfire response and strengthen prevention strategies, including a crackdown on illegal burning, one of the leading causes of wildfires in South Korea.
Wildfires Continue to Spread Across the Region
The fires, which first broke out last Friday in Sancheong County, have now spread to Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok.
🔥 South Korea has experienced drier-than-normal conditions, with 244 wildfires reported this year—2.4 times higher than the same period last year.
With fatalities and destruction mounting, South Korea faces an unprecedented challenge in battling its worst wildfires in history.
