Over 23,000 people have been forced to leave their homes, and hundreds of buildings have been damaged. Getty Images
Wildfires sweeping through South Korea’s southeast have killed at least 18 people and injured 19 others. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety confirmed the latest figures as the country struggles with its worst-ever wildfire disaster.
Acting President Han Duck-soo called the situation “unprecedented” and said the fires are “rewriting history” due to their severity. Over 23,000 people have been evacuated, with many losing their homes. The blazes have also damaged cultural landmarks, including the destruction of the 1,300-year-old Gounsa Temple in Uiseong.
A firefighting helicopter crashed in Uiseong County around midday on Wednesday. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, but no further details have been released.
Thousands of firefighters, supported by around 5,000 military personnel, are working tirelessly to contain the flames. Helicopters from the US military in South Korea have also been deployed to assist.
On Tuesday, the national fire agency raised the wildfire crisis to its highest alert level, marking the first time this year that such a warning has been issued.
The current wildfires have already become the deadliest in South Korea’s history. While wildfires are rare in the country, these blazes have caused more deaths in a few days than any previous fire incidents.
Along with the tragic loss of life, the fires have burned over 17,000 hectares of forest, making them the third largest in the country’s history in terms of area destroyed.
The ancient Gounsa Temple, which was built in 618 AD, was reduced to ashes. Forestry officials confirmed that a Buddhist architectural structure from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), classified as a national treasure, was also destroyed.
Despite the large-scale firefighting efforts, strong winds continue to fuel the spread of the flames, making it difficult to contain the fires.
“We were desperately hoping for rain today or tomorrow to help put out the flames,” Han said. However, the Korea Meteorological Administration reported no rain in the forecast for Wednesday and only a small amount, around five to 10 millimeters, expected on Thursday.
Han promised a thorough review of the country’s wildfire response once the crisis is under control. He also vowed to improve prevention strategies in the future.
“Putting out wildfires demands huge resources and puts many lives at risk,” he said.
South Korea has been experiencing unusually dry weather, with below-average rainfall. So far this year, the country has faced 244 wildfires, more than double the number during the same period last year.
The government announced plans to strengthen enforcement against illegal burning, which is one of the main causes of wildfires. Authorities also warned they will crack down on carelessness that contributes to fire outbreaks.
The fires, which started last Friday in Sancheong County, have now spread to neighboring areas, including Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok.
