Seoul: South Korea has declared a state of emergency as multiple wildfires continue to ravage the south-eastern regions of the country, leading to the deaths of four people, including three firefighters and a public official. Emergency crews are battling more than 30 fires, with dry winds fueling the spread of flames, according to authorities.
The most severe fires are burning in the rural county of Sancheong, where at least 260 residents have been forced to seek refuge in temporary shelters as flames engulf the surrounding hills. The Korea Forest Service reported that the fire, which broke out on Friday afternoon, had already scorched over 500 hectares of land by Saturday evening.
Efforts to contain the wildfire have been met with challenges due to the region’s mountainous terrain and strong winds. Nearly 1,600 emergency personnel, along with 35 helicopters and numerous fire trucks, have been deployed, yet only 35% of the Sancheong blaze has been brought under control.
Meanwhile, in North Gyeongsang province, around 400 people were evacuated from Uiseong as another wildfire consumed 300 hectares. Fires have also forced dozens of residents to flee in the city of Gimhae.
With the escalating crisis, South Korea’s Interior Ministry has declared a state of emergency across the south-eastern regions, including Ulsan and both North and South Gyeongsang provinces. The Korea Forest Service has issued its highest-level fire warning, classifying 12 locations—including major cities like Busan and Daejeon—as being at severe risk.
The wildfires have disrupted transportation, leading to the closure of several highway sections, including a major route linking Ulsan and Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok has urged an all-out response to contain the fires before nightfall on Saturday, warning that strong winds are accelerating the spread of flames, posing an ongoing threat to lives and property.
