Overview

• Investigators suspect the July 2 fire in a Gijang-gun apartment began with a multi-outlet power strip connected to an air conditioner, but await a forensic report due in about a month.
• The blaze claimed the lives of two sisters, ages 8 and 6, who were left alone while their parents worked, and prompted the evacuation of roughly 100 residents.
• Fire authorities found the 2007-built complex lacked an automatic sprinkler system despite having a functional fire alarm.
• Police have found no evidence of criminal intent in the incident and are conducting a joint investigation with the fire service.
• Mayor Park Heong-joon has vowed to strengthen child-care support and review building safety standards to prevent future tragedies.