South Korea battles devastating wildfires, racing to save lives and history

Firefighters in South Korea are in a desperate battle against the country’s largest wildfire on record, which has already claimed at least 27 lives and injured 32 more. Officials say most victims were elderly, in their 60s and 70s.

The fire started nearly a week ago in Sancheong County, likely caused by human activity. Strong winds and dry conditions have helped it spread rapidly to nearby areas, including Uiseong, which is now the worst-hit region.

Authorities suspect that some fires were started accidentally—one possibly from visitors burning items at a family gravesite, another from welding sparks, and some from discarded trash. So far, over 35,810 hectares (88,500 acres) of land—almost half the size of New York City—has been scorched.

Race to Save Historic Artefacts

As the fires spread, officials have been working urgently to protect ancient artefacts from temples and historical sites. Two UNESCO-listed landmarks, Hahoe Village and Byeongsan Seowon, are at risk. The flames have already destroyed the Gounsa temple, which stood since 618 AD, and a treasured Buddhist structure from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

Communities Devastated

Tens of thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate. Many are struggling to cope with the destruction.

Kwon Young-chang, 35, fled his home in Andong as thick smoke filled the air. He said official updates were confusing, and he relied on social media for news—raising concerns that older residents might not have access to critical information.

Another Andong resident, who asked to remain anonymous, lost her family home of 30 years within hours. "There's nothing left… It’s heartbreaking to see my village like this," she said.

In Cheongsong County, Jang Jung-suk and her husband returned home to find their beekeeping business—built over five years—completely destroyed. "My husband couldn't hold back his tears," she said. "I don’t know how to start over."

Climate Crisis Fuels Disaster

Officials warn that the combination of human activity and worsening climate conditions made this wildfire particularly devastating. Warmer-than-usual temperatures, dry land, and strong winds created the perfect conditions for the flames to spread uncontrollably.

"We are witnessing the reality of the climate crisis like never before," said Lee Han-gyeong, a government emergency response official.

Authorities continue to battle the fires, working to protect both lives and the nation’s rich cultural heritage.