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South Korea Declares National Disaster as Wildfires Rage
Tragedy has struck South Korea as wildfires sweep across the southeastern region, claiming the lives of two firefighters and forcing hundreds to evacuate their homes. The firefighters were found in Sancheong County, located in South Gyeongsang province, according to local officials. Two other individuals are currently reported missing.
Multiple fires continue to burn across the country, prompting a national disaster declaration at 6:00 PM local time. The declaration covers Ulsan city and both North and South Gyeongsang provinces.
Over 200 residents from eight villages in Sancheong County were ordered to evacuate due to the rapidly spreading fire. In Uiseong County, located in North Gyeongsang Province, separate wildfires have displaced more than 400 residents.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok called for swift action to contain the blaze, but strong winds have significantly hampered firefighting efforts in the affected areas, approximately 155 miles southeast of Seoul. The Korea Forest Service has issued a serious wildfire warning for twelve locations, including the major port city of Busan and the centrally located city of Daejeon.