South Korea battles worst ever wildfires as death toll hits 28

South Korea’s worst wildfires kill 28, destroy historic temples

Robert Besser
02 Apr 2025, 12:23 GMT+10

South Korea battles worst ever wildfires as death toll hits 28

Wildfires in South Korea have doubled in size in just one day, making them the country’s worst fire disaster
At least 28 people have died, and historic temples have been destroyed
The largest fire, which started in Uiseong County, has burned over 38,000 hectares (93,900 acres)—the biggest wildfire in South Korea’s history

ANDONG, South Korea: Wildfires in South Korea have doubled in size in just one day, making them the country's worst fire disaster. At least 28 people have died, and historic temples have been destroyed.

The largest fire, which started in Uiseong County, has burned over 38,000 hectares (93,900 acres)—the biggest wildfire in South Korea's history. Strong winds and dry conditions have enabled the fire to spread rapidly, reaching the coastal county of Yeongdeok (approximately 50 km or 30 miles away) in just 12 hours.

Acting President Han Duck-soo described the situation as critical, with a rapid spread of the disease causing many casualties. The military has provided extra aviation fuel to keep firefighting helicopters in the air. Over 120 helicopters have been deployed, but the challenging mountain terrain has made firefighting efforts difficult. A pilot died this week when his helicopter crashed while battling the flames.

A small amount of rain fell in the affected areas on March 27, but it was insufficient to extinguish the fire. Experts say climate change is making wildfires worse by creating hotter and drier conditions that turn forests into fuel.

The fires have burned through an area half the size of Singapore, destroying homes and historic sites, including much of Gounsa Temple, which was built in 681 AD. Firefighters are now protecting UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Hahoe Village and the Byeongsan Confucian Academy, which could be in danger if the fire spreads further.