Wildfires in South Korea have killed 26 people, forced thousands to flee their homes, and destroyed over 300 structures. Multiple wildfires have been raging in the southeastern regions since last Friday, with strong winds hampering efforts to contain them. The wildfires have burned almost 90,000 acres of land, injured 30 people, and forced over 37,000 to evacuate.
Authorities suspect human error as the cause of some of the wildfires, including incidents where fires were started while clearing overgrown grass or during welding work. The Korea Forest Service has mobilized thousands of people, helicopters, and equipment to extinguish the blazes, but insufficient rainfall is hindering their efforts.
The wildfires have caused extensive damage, destroying homes, factories, vehicles, and historic structures. In some areas, significant cultural heritage sites have been affected, including the Gounsa temple complex in Uiseong, where two state-designated “treasures” were burned.
The hardest-hit areas include Andong city and neighboring counties, as well as the city of Ulsan. Strong winds and smoke-filled skies have forced evacuations in villages and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while firefighters continue to battle the flames. The acting President of South Korea has called for a concentrated effort to extinguish the wildfires and prevent further damage.
The Korea Forest Service has raised its wildfire warning to the highest level, urging local governments to enhance emergency response measures and restrict entry to forests and parks. Military units have been recommended to refrain from live-fire exercises to prevent further incidents.
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