Seoul, March 30 (IANS) – The massive wildfires that ravaged North and South Gyeongsang provinces for over a week have been fully contained, according to South Korean authorities. Acting Interior Minister Ko Ki-dong confirmed the containment of the blazes during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) on Sunday.
“The wildfires are estimated to have caused the greatest loss of lives and property in our history,” Ko stated, underscoring the severity of the disaster.
Casualties and Damages
The wildfires, which began on March 21 in South Gyeongsang and March 22 in North Gyeongsang, have left 75 casualties, including 30 fatalities. An estimated 48,000 hectares of land—equivalent to approximately 80 percent of Seoul’s size—were scorched. Additionally, more than 3,000 homes, 30 cultural heritage sites, and around 2,000 agricultural facilities were destroyed.
One of the most significant losses includes the destruction of Goun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with thousands of other structures, including homes, factories, and community facilities.
Government Response and Relief Measures
The South Korean government has initiated emergency relief efforts, including the establishment of temporary shelters in training centers and private facilities to accommodate displaced residents. Victims will receive emergency financial aid, as well as psychological and medical support to assist in their recovery.
In response to the fires, military forces were deployed to assist in containment and recovery efforts. On Sunday, 600 soldiers and 49 helicopters were mobilized to extinguish remaining embers and provide humanitarian aid.
Fire Suppression Efforts
According to forestry officials, the fire in South Gyeongsang’s Sancheong County, which had spread to Mount Jiri National Park, was nearly extinguished by Sunday. Authorities deployed 50 helicopters, 1,473 personnel, and 213 vehicles to fully contain the remaining 200-meter-long fire on the park’s outskirts. The fire in North Gyeongsang, which initially appeared to be controlled by Friday, reignited overnight but was subsequently subdued.
Investigation and Legal Action
Authorities have identified a suspect in connection with the wildfire in North Gyeongsang. A 56-year-old man has been booked for allegedly causing the fire while performing an ancestral rite at a family grave in Uiseong County on March 22. The fire rapidly spread to Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok due to strong winds and dry conditions. The suspect, however, has denied the allegations.
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