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4w ago

South Korea's Largest Wildfires on Record Burn 36,000 Hectares, Killing 27

The historic wildfires have displaced over 37,000 people, destroyed cultural landmarks, and exposed vulnerabilities in forest management and climate resilience.

Billowing smoke from a wildfire that ravaged homes in Andong, South Korea, March 25, 2025.
Image
Burnt Unramsa temple is pictured after a wildfire devastated the area in Uiseong, South Korea, March 25, 2025. REUTERS/Minwoo Park
Burnt Unramsa temple is pictured after a wildfire devastated the area in Uiseong, South Korea, March 25, 2025. REUTERS/Minwoo Park

Overview

  • The death toll from South Korea's worst wildfires has risen to 27, with over 36,000 hectares burned and 37,000 residents evacuated.
  • Emergency crews, including over 120 helicopters and thousands of personnel, are struggling to contain the fires due to strong winds and dry conditions.
  • The fires have devastated cultural heritage sites, including the historic Gounsa Temple, where 20 of its 30 structures were destroyed.
  • Experts link the unprecedented scale and speed of the wildfires to climate change and forest management practices that favor highly flammable pine trees.
  • Rain is forecasted but expected to provide minimal relief, as efforts continue to protect UNESCO sites and vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.