Catastrophic Wildfires Devastate South Korea's Southeast Region

In South Korea, rampant wildfires in the southeastern region have led to 18 deaths and the evacuation of over 27,000 residents. The government, with military support and international aid, is struggling to combat the blazes exacerbated by strong winds and dry weather, affecting areas including UNESCO World Heritage sites.

South Korea is grappling with its worst wildfires in decades as blazes tear through the southeastern region, claiming at least 18 lives and displacing over 27,000 residents. Thousands of firefighters, supported by military forces, are battling to control the spread of the fires, which have been fueled by dry conditions and strong winds.

The fires remain largely uncontained, with the Uiseong fire only 68% under control. Authorities are also receiving assistance from the U.S. military in Korea as they work to protect vulnerable sites, including UNESCO World Heritage locations at risk of being damaged by the flames.

Technical challenges, such as grounded helicopters and supply chain disruptions due to international sanctions, have hindered firefighting efforts. The Korea Forest Service plans to enhance its aerial capabilities by procuring additional firefighting helicopters, amid growing scrutiny and criticism over current emergency response resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)