Seoul, March 28 (IANS) – The United States has extended its condolences to South Korea following the catastrophic wildfires that have ravaged the southeastern region, pledging unwavering support to the affected communities.
In an official statement on Friday, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce expressed deep sympathy for the loss of life and extensive damage caused by the wildfires in North Gyeongsang Province. Referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea, Bruce stated, “The United States offers our sincere condolences to the people of the Republic of Korea for the tragic loss of life and the extensive damage caused by ongoing wildfires in the southeastern region.”
Bruce reaffirmed America’s commitment to standing with its ally during this crisis. “United States Forces Korea also stands ready to provide assistance to help combat the fires and support the affected communities,” she emphasized.
Paying tribute to the lives lost, including courageous firefighters, Bruce added, “We mourn the loss of the brave firefighters and many others who have died. Our thoughts are with their families, the displaced individuals, and all those seeking refuge during this tragic time.”
Bruce also recalled South Korea’s past support during similar crises in the United States. “Just as you have stood with us, we will stand with you,” she said, acknowledging the solidarity between the two nations in times of disaster.
Scale of the Disaster and Ongoing Response Efforts
The wildfires, which erupted in Uiseong County—approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Seoul—on Saturday, have rapidly spread due to strong winds, marking the worst wildfire disaster in South Korea’s history.
According to government reports, the fires have claimed 28 lives and left 32 individuals injured. The destruction has spanned over 38,000 hectares of woodland, significantly surpassing the 23,794 hectares devastated by the 2000 east coast wildfires.
The disaster has also forced the evacuation of 37,829 residents, with nearly 30,000 displaced in the Uiseong and Andong areas of North Gyeongsang Province.
South Korea’s Acting President Han Duck-soo has instructed Acting Interior Minister Ko Ki-dong to remain in North Gyeongsang Province to oversee relief operations until the wildfires are fully contained. Han expressed concern about the welfare of the victims, particularly senior citizens, including patients in nursing hospitals. “Please personally take care of the victims’ health and safety on the ground and activate an efficient support system so that the wildfire-extinguishing personnel and volunteer workers do not burn out,” Han urged.
Authorities have mobilized extensive resources, including helicopters, fire trucks, and a substantial force of firefighting personnel, to combat the inferno. Meanwhile, weather officials have forecasted approximately 5 mm of rainfall in North Gyeongsang Province, which may provide some relief in firefighting efforts.
International Support and Condolences
Japan has also conveyed its sympathies to South Korea. Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya issued a message of condolence, expressing hope for a “fast recovery of affected people and their return to normal life.” Additionally, Japanese Ambassador to South Korea Koichi Mizushima extended words of comfort to the victims.
With firefighting efforts intensifying and international support pouring in, South Korea continues to confront the ongoing disaster with resilience and determination, aiming to mitigate the damage and aid those affected by the devastating wildfires.
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