Wind-driven wildfires have ravaged South Korea’s southern regions, killing 18 people, destroying over 200 structures, and forcing 27,000 residents to evacuate, officials said Wednesday. The devastating blazes, which began last Friday, have burned 43,330 acres of land and injured 19 people, making them among the worst in the country’s history.
In a televised address, Acting President Han Duck-soo called the situation dire, warning that the damage could surpass that of previous wildfires. “Damages are snowballing,” Han said. “We must concentrate all our capabilities to extinguish the wildfires this week.”
Destruction of Cultural Heritage
Among the destroyed structures was Gounsa, a 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple in Uiseong. Despite the fire, some of the temple’s precious artifacts, including a stone Buddha statue, were safely evacuated. Officials from the Korea Heritage Service confirmed the temple’s loss, describing it as a devastating blow to the nation’s cultural heritage.
Evacuations and Firefighting Efforts
The wildfires affected multiple regions, including Andong, Uiseong, Sancheong, and Ulsan. Strong winds and dry conditions hampered firefighting efforts, forcing emergency personnel to suspend operations overnight. Around 4,650 firefighters, soldiers, and emergency personnel deployed 130 helicopters to battle the flames. Light rain expected on Thursday could aid their efforts.
The Korea Forest Service raised its wildfire warning to the highest “serious” level, prompting tighter restrictions on forest access and increased personnel deployment.
Suspected Causes and Human Error
Authorities suspect human error may have caused several of the fires. Incidents involving fire use during grass clearing at family tombs and sparks from welding work are being investigated.
The death toll includes four firefighters and government workers who perished in Sancheong, trapped by rapidly spreading flames. Officials remain on high alert as firefighting efforts continue, with fears of further spread if winds persist.
