Severe wildfires ravaging southeastern South Korea have left at least 24 people dead and countless others displaced. Most of the victims were elderly, with 26 others injured, 12 critically. Over 23,000 residents have fled their homes as the fires continue to spread across cities and villages. Officials have described this disaster as the most severe wildfire crisis in the country’s history. In addition to the human toll, the blazes have destroyed the ancient Gounsa temple, a cultural landmark over 1,300 years old.

Fires Rage Out of Control Across Multiple Counties

The wildfires, which ignited in Sancheong county on Friday, quickly spread to Uiseong and other nearby areas. Fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, the fires have reached Andong, Yeongyang, Yeongdeok, and Cheongsong. Lee Byung-doo, an expert in wildfire management, noted that the scale and speed of the fires were “beyond imagination.” Local authorities reported that there was no rain expected on Wednesday, with only minimal rainfall predicted for Thursday, further complicating firefighting efforts.

Historic Temple and National Treasures Lost to Flames

The historic Gounsa temple, a cherished symbol of South Korea’s cultural heritage, was consumed by flames. Built in 618 AD, the temple was one of the largest and most important in the region. Despite the destruction, cultural officials managed to rescue key relics before the fire reached the temple grounds. Additionally, a national treasure from the Joseon Dynasty, housed at the site, was destroyed. The loss of these cultural landmarks has been a devastating blow to South Korea’s heritage.

Emergency Efforts Mobilized Amid Growing Threat

In response to the escalating crisis, authorities raised the national fire emergency level to its highest for the first time this year. With 244 wildfires already reported in 2025, more than double the number from last year, the situation has become increasingly dire. Thousands of firefighters and 5,000 soldiers were deployed to combat the flames, supported by helicopters from U.S. military bases in South Korea. Tragically, one firefighting helicopter crashed near Uiseong on Wednesday, and an investigation is underway.

Eyewitness Accounts Reveal the Devastation

Local residents shared harrowing stories of their narrow escapes. Cho Jae-oak, an apple farmer in Uiseong, described how he and his wife fought the flames by spraying water on their home, only to eventually flee as fireballs descended from the hills. “We had to evacuate as the fire was too close to stop,” he said. A 68-year-old Buddhist monk who had spent years at the Gounsa temple expressed his heartbreak: “It was devastating to hear that the temple was gone,” he said. “We will rebuild its spirit.”

Winds and Weather Delay Firefighting Efforts

The relentless winds have continued to hamper firefighting efforts, pushing the fires into new territories and making it difficult for crews to control the spread. Acting President Han Duck-soo acknowledged the difficulty in managing the crisis, emphasizing the need for rain to help slow the fires. Unfortunately, forecasts predict minimal rainfall in the coming days, further heightening the risk.

Government Vows Action and Stricter Enforcement

In the wake of this unprecedented disaster, President Han confirmed that all available emergency resources have been mobilized. He pledged to review the national response and make necessary improvements to fire prevention measures. “Wildfires are an ever-present threat that demand significant resources to contain,” Han said. He also promised to enforce stricter penalties for illegal burning and negligence, which have been major contributors to the frequency and severity of these wildfires.

The ongoing wildfires in South Korea have left a trail of devastation, both in terms of human lives and irreplaceable cultural heritage. As emergency crews battle the flames, the government has vowed to implement stronger preventive measures to avoid future tragedies. While recovery will take time, the resilience of the South Korean people and their commitment to rebuilding their heritage remain steadfast