South Korea is grappling with its most severe wildfire on record, with authorities confirming that the blaze has destroyed more forest than any previous wildfire in the country.
The disaster chief, Lee Han-kyung, reported on Thursday that the inferno has already claimed 26 lives, with dozens more injured.
Over a dozen fires erupted over the weekend, rapidly consuming vast areas in the southeastern region.
The flames forced around 27,000 people to flee their homes as the fire severed roads and disrupted communication networks, creating widespread panic.
“The wildfire is spreading at an alarming rate,” Lee stated. “So far, 26 people have died, eight are critically injured, and 22 have sustained minor injuries.”
The fires have ravaged approximately 35,810 hectares of land surpassing the destruction caused by the 2000 east coast wildfire, which previously held the record at 23,913 hectares.
Officials cited shifting winds and prolonged dry conditions as key factors hindering traditional firefighting methods.
Among the casualties were residents, three firefighters, and a helicopter pilot who died when his aircraft crashed while battling the flames.
Experts have linked the wildfire’s intensity to climate change, pointing to record-breaking temperatures and an unusually dry season.
South Korea recorded its hottest year ever in 2023, with an annual average temperature of 14.5°C—two degrees above the 30-year norm.
The affected region has also experienced significantly lower-than-average rainfall, making it highly vulnerable to wildfires.
Disaster chief Lee emphasized the role of climate conditions in escalating the crisis. “This wildfire is a stark reminder of the climate emergency we are facing,” he said.
“Strong winds and a severe lack of rain have intensified the blaze, making containment efforts extremely difficult.”
Meanwhile, officials are working to protect multiple cultural landmarks, including two UNESCO-listed heritage sites.
At the Byungsan Suwon Confucian Academy, firefighters have been deploying water and fire-retardant chemicals to prevent the flames from reaching the historic structure.
Authorities hope that expected rainfall on Thursday will provide an opportunity to finally control the disaster.
