Seoul: After wreaking havoc in California, wildfires have now caused massive destruction in South Korea. The inferno, which broke out in the southern region of the country, has claimed at least 18 lives so far, including four firefighters and government officials. Authorities reported on Wednesday that over 200 buildings have been reduced to ashes, and more than 27,000 people have been forced to evacuate. It is being described as the most devastating wildfire in South Korea’s history.
President Declares Emergency Response
Acting President Han Duck-soo stated that the fire, which started last Friday, is more dangerous than any previous incidents. “The damage continues to escalate. We have never seen such a severe wildfire before. We will deploy all possible resources to extinguish the blaze this week,” Han said. He further explained that strong overnight winds have made it difficult for firefighters to contain the flames. As of Wednesday, nearly 4,650 firefighters, soldiers, and emergency personnel, supported by around 130 helicopters, were battling the fire. Authorities hope for some relief by Thursday.
Five Major Fire Zones Identified
The wildfire has spread across five different locations in South Korea. According to the Korea Forest Service, four firefighters lost their lives on Saturday while trying to control the fire in Sanchong. Acting Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has pledged all necessary efforts to contain the fire and has urged citizens to remain vigilant.
Mass Evacuations Underway
More than 5,500 residents from Andong, neighboring Uiseong, Sanchong counties, and the city of Ulsan have been evacuated. According to the Ministry of Interior and Safety, the fire has taken a severe toll, particularly in Uiseong County, where it continues to spread rapidly. Authorities in Andong and Uiseong have ordered the evacuation of several villages and residents near Andong University as a precautionary measure.
Helicopters Deployed for Firefighting Efforts
Despite significant progress in dousing the flames, strong winds and dry conditions have caused the fire to reignite. Over 9,000 firefighters, 130 helicopters, and hundreds of emergency vehicles are engaged in extinguishing the blaze.
Historic Buddhist Monastery Destroyed
According to Korea Heritage Service officials, the wildfire in Uiseong has devastated the 1,300-year-old Buddhist monastery Gaunsa, a wooden temple built in the 7th century. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported at the site. Before the fire reached the temple, authorities managed to salvage the Buddha statue and other national treasures.
Inmates Relocated Due to Fire Threat
Road closures have been implemented in Yeongdeok city, and residents of four villages have been asked to evacuate. Authorities are also relocating approximately 2,600 inmates from a prison in Cheongsong County as a precautionary measure. However, the Ministry of Justice has yet to confirm the exact number of inmates transferred.
Over 43,000 Acres Consumed by Fire
South Korea’s emergency response center has confirmed that the wildfire has destroyed approximately 43,330 acres of land. Local authorities issued evacuation orders on Tuesday for southeastern cities and towns at high risk. While firefighters had managed to control some parts of the fire, strong winds and dry conditions have caused it to flare up again.
With emergency crews working tirelessly, South Korea remains on high alert as the nation battles one of its worst environmental disasters in history.
