South Korea is facing its largest wildfires in history, with at least 26 people confirmed dead and tens of thousands displaced. The fires, which began on March 21 in the country’s southeastern region, have spread rapidly due to strong winds and dry conditions.
Local officials report that most of the victims were elderly, in their 60s and 70s. Eyewitnesses have described apocalyptic scenes as flames engulf homes and entire communities. One resident told the media that the destruction in his city is “devastating.”
Authorities suspect that human activities may have sparked multiple fires, but the dry terrain and strong winds have fueled their spread. The dangerous conditions have also made aerial firefighting efforts difficult, with one helicopter crashing during an operation on Tuesday.
Among the worst losses is the destruction of a 1,300-year-old temple in Uiseong city, a major cultural site. Several other historic locations remain at risk as firefighters race to contain the inferno and protect lives and heritage.
Emergency teams continue to battle the flames, but the situation remains critical, with authorities urging residents to evacuate to safety as the fires rage on.
