Raging Wildfires in South Korea: Crisis Unfolds

Wildfires in South Korea's southeastern region have claimed at least 16 lives and forced residents to evacuate. The fires, driven by strong winds and dry conditions, have razed neighborhoods and remain mostly uncontained. Authorities are deploying resources to combat the escalating crisis linked to climate change.

Severe wildfires in South Korea's southeastern region have resulted in at least 16 deaths, displacing thousands of residents and decimating neighborhoods. Authorities have evacuated hundreds of inmates and are struggling to contain the relentless flames.

According to the Safety Ministry, the fires, which began over the weekend, have spread rapidly due to strong winds. Particularly devastating are those originating from Uiseong and Sancheong counties, with Uiseong's blaze being only 68% contained.

Acting President Han Duck-soo has pledged to deploy additional firefighting forces. Experts like Lee Byung-doo highlight the increasing frequency of such fires, attributing them to climate change. The government has now declared the affected areas special disaster zones.

(With inputs from agencies.)