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18 people died, thousand-year-old temple burned down in forest fire in South Korea

TB (summary) March 26, 2025 11:33

A massive forest fire in South Korea has killed at least 18 people and injured 19 others, as firefighters battle to contain the spreading blaze.

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Forest fire in Uiseong, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea on March 24, 2025

A massive forest fire in southeastern South Korea has killed at least 18 people and injured 19 others, the South Korean government said on March 26, as firefighters struggled to contain the rapidly spreading blaze.

The fires broke out on March 21 in Sancheong County, North Gyeongsang Province, and then spread to neighboring areas such as Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang and Yeongdeok due to strong winds and dry weather.

Thousands of firefighters along with dozens of helicopters and firefighting vehicles have been deployed to put out the fire.

Since the fire began, the South Korean military has mobilized about 5,000 soldiers and 146 helicopters to support firefighting efforts.

Fire has destroyed Goun Temple in Uiseong, an ancient temple built in 681 during the Silla Dynasty (57 BC-AD 935). National treasures kept at the temple have been moved to a safe place.

About 500 inmates at a prison in North Gyeongsang Province were transferred to another facility overnight for safety, the South Korean Justice Ministry said.

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18 people died, thousand-year-old temple burned down in forest fire in South Korea