South Korea Battles Devastating Wildfires with 20 Dead and Thousands Displaced

Historic landmarks destroyed and over 17,000 hectares burned as emergency crews confront worsening fires fueled by drought and strong winds.

At least 20 people have died, including a firefighter pilot, and 19 others have been injured in the ongoing wildfires in southeastern South Korea.
The fires have destroyed over 17,000 hectares of land, making them the third-largest in the country's history, with hundreds of buildings lost.
Significant cultural heritage sites, including the thousand-year-old Gounsa Temple, have been destroyed, while the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Village remains under threat.
Approximately 27,000 residents have been evacuated, with more than 6,700 firefighters and 130 helicopters deployed in containment efforts.
Officials cite climate change, drought, and strong winds as key factors exacerbating the fires, with expected rain offering potential relief in the coming days.