At least 18 people have been killed, and nearly 20 others injured, as wildfires continue to wreak havoc across South Korea’s southeastern regions. Authorities are struggling to contain the fast-spreading blazes, which have been raging since last week, fueled by strong and dry winds.
The Korea Forest Service reports that thousands of firefighters and soldiers have been deployed to battle at least five active wildfires, including those in North Gyeongsang Province, where the fires first erupted in Sancheong County before spreading to neighbouring Uiseong County. The fires have since advanced into Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok, devastating vast areas of forest and threatening local communities.
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Rising Death Toll and Widespread Destruction
As of Wednesday, the death toll has risen to 18, with Yonhap news agency confirming that four of the victims perished in a vehicle accident while trying to escape the flames. In addition to the tragic loss of life, more than 17,000 hectares (42,000 acres) of forest have been consumed, and hundreds of structures have been destroyed, including the historic Gounsa temple in Uiseong. Built in 681, the Buddhist temple housed national treasures that were moved to safety before the site was engulfed by the flames.
Authorities have also ordered large-scale evacuations, with emergency alerts issued for UNESCO-listed sites such as the Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, which lies just eight kilometres from the advancing wildfire.
Government Response and Military Support
South Korea’s acting President, Han Duck-soo, has acknowledged the unprecedented scale of the wildfires, stating that they have surpassed all previous prediction models. In response, the military has mobilised 5,000 service members and deployed 146 helicopters to assist in firefighting efforts.
The government continues to relocate vulnerable populations, including the transfer of around 500 inmates from a prison in the affected region to safer facilities. Despite these efforts, the wildfires remain difficult to control due to the adverse weather conditions.
