Death toll rises amid devastating wildfires in South Korea

Tengrinews.kz – At least 24 people have died as massive wildfires continue to ravage southeastern South Korea. The blazes, which have been burning for several days, have already been described as some of the most destructive in the country’s history.

According to South Korea’s Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters, as of 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, 20 of the victims were found in the city of Uiseong, and four others in Sancheong County.

The fires initially broke out on March 21 in Sancheong, located in South Gyeongsang Province. Efforts to contain the flames have been severely hampered by strong winds and dry weather.

Acting President Han Duck-soo urged maximum efforts to halt the spread of the fires, which have scorched over 17,000 hectares of forest and destroyed more than 200 homes and factories.

In a tragic turn, a firefighting helicopter crashed in Uiseong during operations, killing the pilot on board.

Among the cultural losses, the historic Gounsa Temple - built in 681 during the Silla Dynasty - was completely destroyed by fire. Fortunately, national treasures stored within the temple had been evacuated in advance.

Both North and South Gyeongsang provinces are rich in cultural heritage, and authorities are on high alert to protect historical landmarks.

Flames have now advanced to within five kilometers of Hahoe Folk Village in Andong. In response, local officials plan to deploy two firefighting helicopters as a preventive measure.

Located about 190 kilometers southeast of Seoul, Hahoe Village is one of South Korea’s most treasured historical sites. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2010 for its well-preserved architecture and cultural legacy from the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910).