Seoul: South Korea is facing its worst-ever wildfire disaster, as blazes continue to spread at an alarming rate, leaving at least 27 people dead and historic sites reduced to ashes. The wildfires, which have doubled in size within a day, have already scorched more than 33,000 hectares (81,500 acres), surpassing the previous record of 24,000 hectares (59,000 acres) set in March 2000.
“We are nationally in a critical situation with numerous casualties because of the unprecedented rapid spread of forest fires“, said Acting President Han Duck-soo during a government response meeting.
Fire Rages Across Uiseong, Yeongdeok, and Surrounding Regions
The largest and most destructive of the fires started in Uiseong County, in North Gyeongsang Province, before spreading rapidly eastward. Carried by strong winds and dry conditions, the flames have already reached Yeongdeok County, a coastal area 51 kilometers (32 miles) away, in just 12 hours, according to Won Myung-soo, director of satellite imagery analysis for the National Forestry Service.
The Korean military has stepped in, releasing emergency aviation fuel to keep firefighting helicopters operational. More than 120 helicopters have been deployed across multiple regions in a desperate attempt to control the inferno. South Korea, known for its mountainous terrain, relies heavily on aerial firefighting resources.
Firefighting Efforts and Limited Rainfall
Authorities remain cautiously hopeful as weather forecasts predict some rain in the southwest. However, the expected precipitation is less than 5 millimeters, making it unlikely to provide significant relief.
“The amount of rain is going to be small, so it doesn’t look like it’ll be a big help in trying to extinguish the fire”, said Korea Forest Service Minister Lim Sang-seop.
Tragic Losses: Lives, Homes, and Historic Temples Destroyed
The wildfires have already claimed lives, including that of a helicopter pilot who crashed while battling the flames. Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate as entire villages are devastated by the fast-moving fires.
Among the hardest-hit cultural landmarks is Gounsa Temple, a 1,300-year-old Buddhist monastery in Uiseong, which has been severely damaged.
“The buildings and remains of what Buddhist monks have left over 1,300 years are now all gone,” lamented Deungwoon, head of the temple.
Authorities are also working to protect UNESCO World Heritage sites, including:
- Hahoe Folk Village – A picturesque settlement of traditional Korean houses with thatched roofs.
- Byeongsan Confucian Academy – A 450-year-old site of historical significance in Andong City.
Firefighters are on high alert to prevent the blaze from jumping the stream that surrounds these historic sites.
Climate Change and the Future of Wildfires
According to experts, the scale and speed of the Uiseong fire are unprecedented. Scientists warn that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires worldwide.
The Climate Central group, an independent network of scientists, attributes the rapid spread to higher temperatures caused by human-driven climate change, which have turned the region’s seasonally dry landscapes into dangerous fire fuel.
As South Korea continues to battle its largest-ever wildfire, the nation remains on edge, with authorities racing against time to contain the flames and prevent further devastation.
