South Korea hit by over 30 forest fires, two firefighters dead and two missing

On Saturday (March 22), more than 30 forest fires broke out in South Korea, fueled by dry and strong winds. This includes a deadly blaze in the southeastern part of the Korean Peninsula, resulting in the deaths of at least 2 firefighters, 2 missing individuals, and hundreds being evacuated from their homes.

Acting President Choi Sang-mok urged for full efforts to extinguish the fires before sunset as the strong winds were fanning the flames, causing wildfires to spread rapidly.

The largest fire occurred in the southeastern region, including areas like Sancheong County and other rural areas. Reports indicate that 2 firefighters lost their lives while combating the deadly blaze in South Gyeongsang Province. Another firefighter and a government official were trapped due to the rapid spread of the fire fueled by the strong winds, and they remain missing. Rescue teams managed to save 5 emergency responders who are currently undergoing treatment.

The wildfire began on Friday and by Saturday afternoon had already destroyed approximately 275 hectares (about 680 acres) of land. According to the South Gyeongsang Province government, 260 people from Sancheong County sought refuge in temporary shelters as the wildfire spread to surrounding hills.

The Korea Forest Service stated that by Saturday evening, the fire in Sancheong County had burned over 500 hectares (about 1,200 acres) of land. Despite deploying nearly 1,600 emergency personnel, 35 helicopters, and dozens of vehicles, only about 35% of the fire had been contained due to the rugged terrain and strong winds.

In Uiseong County, North Gyeongsang Province, more than 400 people have been evacuated due to the wildfire. At present, around 300 hectares (about 740 acres) of land have been engulfed by the blaze. In Gimhae City, several dozen residents have also been forced to flee.

The fires have led to the closure of multiple highways in the southeast, including sections connecting Ulsan City and Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city.

On Saturday evening, the South Korean central government designated North Gyeongsang Province, South Gyeongsang Province, and Ulsan City as disaster areas, with Acting President Choi Sang-mok pledging full efforts to extinguish the fires.

Furthermore, wildfires have also been reported in the central Chungcheong region and the southwestern Jeolla region.