Thu Mar 27 06:41:15 UTC 2025: ## South Korea Battles Worst Wildfires in History, Death Toll Rises to 26
**SEOUL, South Korea** – South Korea is grappling with its worst wildfires in history, as the death toll climbs to 26 and the affected area has more than doubled. The blazes, which erupted late Friday in Sancheong county, have consumed an estimated 81,500 acres (33,000 hectares) – surpassing the previous record set in 2000.
Acting President Han Duck-soo declared a national emergency, citing the unprecedented speed and scale of the fires. Strong winds and exceptionally dry conditions, exacerbated by below-average rainfall this season, have fueled the rapid spread across mountainous terrain in the southeast of the country. Several regions, including Gyeongbuk, Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang and Sancheong, are severely impacted.
Over 120 helicopters are engaged in firefighting efforts, but progress has been hampered by the challenging terrain and the limited rainfall forecast. The meteorological agency predicts less than 5mm of precipitation in most affected areas, offering little hope of quickly extinguishing the fires.
The fires have already claimed the lives of four firefighters and government workers, along with a pilot whose helicopter crashed during operations. Nearly 30,000 residents have been evacuated, and numerous structures have been destroyed, including half of the historic Gounsa Buddhist temple, which houses two state-designated treasures. The UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village is also under threat.
Authorities believe human error, such as the use of fire for clearing overgrown grass or sparks from welding, may have been the cause. Investigations are ongoing. The devastation highlights the urgent need for improved fire prevention measures and preparedness in the face of increasingly extreme weather conditions.
First Piper 