Massive wildfires continue to spread in southeastern South Korea. So far, the fires have killed at least 24 people and injured 26. Authorities report that most victims were in their 60s and 70s. Additionally, twelve people remain in critical condition. Meanwhile, over 23,000 residents have fled their homes to escape the flames.

Fires Reach Record Levels

Acting President Han Duck-soo described the disaster as "unprecedented." He also stated that it is "rewriting the record books for the worst wildfires in our nation's history."

Notably, the fires destroyed the 1,300-year-old Gounsa Temple in Uiseong City. However, officials managed to move many cultural relics to safety before the temple burned down.

The wildfires first broke out in Sancheong County on Friday. Soon after, strong, dry winds pushed the flames toward Uiseong County and nearby areas, including Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok.

Blazes Spread Quickly, Helicopter Crashes

Experts warn that the fire in Uiseong is growing at an alarming rate. In fact, Lee Byung-doo, a forest disaster expert, stated, "The Uiseong blaze is spreading at an 'unimaginable' scale and speed."

At the same time, authorities are investigating the cause of a firefighting helicopter crash that occurred in Uiseong County on Wednesday.

To contain the fires, thousands of firefighters and 5,000 military personnel have been deployed. Additionally, the U.S. military in Korea has sent helicopters to assist.

Government Raises Crisis Alert

On Tuesday, South Korea’s national fire agency escalated the crisis level to its highest. This is the first time this year that authorities have issued such an alert.

Although wildfires are rare in South Korea, these fires have already become the deadliest in the country’s history. Within just a few days, they have claimed 18 lives. In addition, the fires have destroyed 17,000 hectares (42,000 acres) of forest, making this the third-largest wildfire in South Korea by area.

Cultural and Personal Losses

The fires have devastated Uiseong. For instance, the historic Gounsa Temple, built in 618 AD, has been completely destroyed. Additionally, forestry officials confirmed that a treasured Buddhist structure from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) has burned down.

Meanwhile, locals have made desperate attempts to save their homes. Apple farmer Cho Jae-oak and his wife sprayed water around their house all day. Recalling the terrifying experience, he said, "When the fire was burning on the mountain, fireballs flew here." However, the couple eventually had to evacuate.

Similarly, a 68-year-old monk expressed his sorrow over the destruction of the temple. "It was an extremely painful feeling, and I wondered why something like this could happen," said Joung-ou. Nevertheless, he remained hopeful, adding, "We will do our best to restore the function of the temple."

Evacuations Continue as Winds Push Fires

In Andong, evacuees seeking shelter in an elementary school were forced to leave again. Unfortunately, strong winds spread the fire toward them. Describing the chaos, 79-year-old Kwon So-han said, "The wind was so strong. The fire came from the mountain and fell on my house."

Meanwhile, Acting President Han assured the public that all available resources have been deployed. However, he acknowledged that strong winds continue to slow firefighting efforts.

"We were desperately hoping for rain today or tomorrow to help extinguish the flames," Han said. "This level of wildfire damage is unlike anything we've experienced before."

Government Promises Stronger Prevention

Unfortunately, forecasts predict little relief. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, there will be no rain on Wednesday. Moreover, only a small amount—five to 10mm—is expected on Thursday.

Nevertheless, Han stated that officials will thoroughly review the wildfire response once the crisis is under control. Furthermore, he promised better fire prevention strategies.

"Once a wildfire starts, extinguishing it requires tremendous resources and puts precious lives in danger," he said.

Currently, South Korea is experiencing unusually dry conditions. As a result, officials report that 244 wildfires have already occurred in 2024—more than twice the number from the same period last year.

In response, the government has pledged stricter enforcement against illegal burning. Additionally, officials plan to crack down on carelessness that could start new fires.