South Korea Battles Devastating Wildfires, Two Firefighters Perish

A raging wildfire engulfed a factory building in Uiseong, South Korea, on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Firefighters battled the blaze as it spread across the surrounding hills, fueled by dry winds.

The fire was one of over 30 wildfires that erupted across South Korea, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate their homes. The largest fires were concentrated in the southeastern regions, including the rural county of Sancheong.

Tragically, two firefighters lost their lives while battling the flames in Sancheong. Another firefighter and a government worker remained missing after being trapped by the fast-moving fire. Five emergency workers were rescued and received treatment for their injuries.

The Sancheong wildfire had burned over 500 hectares (1,200 acres) by Saturday evening. Despite the efforts of nearly 1,600 emergency workers, 35 helicopters, and dozens of vehicles, only 35% of the blaze was contained due to the challenging terrain and strong winds.

The fires also forced the evacuation of over 400 people in Uiseong and dozens more in Gimhae. Several highway sections were closed, including one connecting Ulsan and Busan, South Korea's second-largest city.

The national government declared the North and South Gyeongsang provinces and the southeastern city of Ulsan as disaster zones. Acting President Choi Sang-mok vowed an all-out response to extinguish the flames.

Wildfires were also reported in central Chungcheong and southwestern Jeolla provinces, highlighting the widespread impact of the dry conditions and strong winds.