Wildfires in South Korea kill 26 and destroy vast areas
- Over 36,000 hectares of land have been destroyed by wildfires in South Korea's southeastern regions since March 22.
- At least 26 people have died with many others injured as thousands of personnel mobilized to battle the flames.
- The ongoing wildfires are considered the largest and most destructive in South Korea's history.
In South Korea, devastating wildfires have swept across the southeastern regions, igniting on March 22, 2025. These fires have claimed the lives of at least 26 individuals, with many others injured, as firefighting forces work tirelessly to control the situation. The wildfires have scorched an estimated 36,000 hectares, making this the worst fire disaster in the nation's recorded history. The impact has been severe, resulting in extensive property damage, the displacement of over 37,000 residents, and destruction of numerous structures, including culturally significant temples and other heritage sites. The fires initially erupted in Uiseong County and rapidly spread to surrounding areas, including Andong and Cheongsong, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Authorities suspect human error in starting several of the fires, with instances cited where individuals ignited flames during grass-clearing activities. As a proactive measure, officials have mobilized over 9,000 personnel and around 120 helicopters for firefighting efforts, but the unique conditions have hampered progress. Caught in the path of the flames are cherished national treasures, including historical sites and artifacts. Critical items have been transferred to safer locations to prevent loss, and efforts are ongoing to protect remaining structures from the raging blazes. The Korea Forest Service has elevated wildfire warnings to the highest level, calling for increased emergency response and imposing restrictions on access to forests. As the situation unfolds, the government has declared special disaster zones in the affected areas, which have faced unprecedented destruction. The local communities are working diligently to cope with the aftermath. President Han Duck-soo has described the crisis as a national emergency, emphasizing the immediate need for collective efforts to combat the fires and support affected citizens. While efforts to extinguish the blazes continue, the scale of destruction paints a grim picture for the future of many historical landmarks and local interventions.