South Korea Declares National Disaster as Wildfires Rage On; MFA Advises Singaporeans to Stay Alert
The South Korean government has officially declared a state of national disaster due to the “massive” wildfires currently ravaging the southeastern regions, particularly in Gyeongsang. Areas such as Andong, Bonghwa, Sancheong, Uiseong, and Ulsan have been severely affected, with the risk of the fires spreading further exacerbated by dry weather and strong winds.
In a recent advisory posted on March 25, the Singapore Embassy in Seoul urged Singaporeans residing in South Korea to stay informed about the situation through local news outlets and to heed the advice of local authorities. They also recommended that Singaporeans utilize the National Disaster and Safety Portal and download the Emergency Ready App, which provides real-time disaster alerts in English, along with safety guidelines and information about emergency facilities like fire stations and medical centers.
Casualties and Damage
The wildfires have already claimed the lives of at least 18 individuals, with another 19 reported injured, primarily affecting older adults in their 60s and above. The fires ignited in Sancheong on March 21 and rapidly spread to surrounding areas, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Tragically, some victims were found burnt to death on a road on March 25, including responders and civil servants who were working to combat the flames.
1000 year old Temple consumed by wildfire
To combat the wildfires, the South Korean government has deployed 87 helicopters and over 4,900 personnel, including firefighters and military troops, as of March 26. More than 20,000 residents have been evacuated from their homes, along with around 500 inmates from a prison in North Gyeongsang.
Despite ongoing efforts, the historic Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, which has stood for over 1,000 years, was completely destroyed by the fire on March 25. The flames have also come dangerously close to Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site and popular tourist destination.
A National Crisis
In a national address on March 26, South Korea’s acting president and prime minister, Han Duck Soo, described the wildfires as “the worst wildfire in [the country’s] history.” He acknowledged that despite deploying “all available personnel and equipment,” the situation remains dire. So far, approximately 17,000 hectares of forest and 209 homes and factories have been lost to the flames.
Han urged the public to refrain from burning vegetation around rice paddies or fields and to avoid carelessly discarding cigarette butts, as these actions can exacerbate the wildfire situation.
As the situation continues to develop, the Singapore Embassy remains vigilant in providing updates and support to Singaporeans in South Korea. For those affected, the community’s resilience and cooperation will be crucial in navigating this challenging time.