नेपाल सम्वत् ११४५ चिल्लागाः १२ (१३ चैत्र, २०८१) मार्च २६, २०२५ ,बुधबार, बाँपीझ्याला । Wind-driven wildfires have wreaked havoc in South Korea’s southern regions, killing 18 people, injuring 19, and forcing the evacuation of 27,000 residents. The fires have destroyed over 200 structures, including homes, factories, and vehicles, and have burned 43,330 acres of land. Among the hardest-hit areas is Uiseong, where a helicopter crashed during firefighting efforts, though the pilot’s condition remains unknown. The ongoing disaster is considered one of the worst wildfires in the country’s history.

Efforts to control the wildfires have been severely challenged by strong winds and dry conditions. Nearly 4,650 firefighters, soldiers, and emergency personnel, supported by 130 helicopters, have been deployed to extinguish the flames. However, officials say the fires keep reigniting due to changing wind patterns. Acting President Han Duck-soo has urged the nation to focus all available resources on controlling the disaster, warning that the damage could surpass past wildfires.

The fires have also severely impacted historical and religious sites. At Gounsa, a Buddhist temple originally built in the 7th century, nearly half of its 30 structures were destroyed, including two state-designated treasures from the 17th and 20th centuries. A stone Buddha statue from the 8th century was safely relocated. Additionally, authorities evacuated 500 inmates from a detention center in Cheongsong, though the facility itself remained undamaged.

In response to the escalating crisis, the Korea Forest Service raised its wildfire warning to the highest level, requiring stricter forest entry restrictions and increased emergency personnel. Investigations suggest that human activities, such as using fire to clear overgrown grass near family tombs or welding work, may have sparked some of the fires. As firefighting efforts continue, a small amount of rain is expected, offering a glimmer of hope for controlling the blaze.