Blaze Raises Alarms Over Seoul's Stark Income Inequalities

A fire in Seoul's Guryong village, one of the last shanty towns, highlights South Korea's income disparities as it destroyed makeshift houses, forcing residents to flee. Firefighters controlled the blaze in about 6 1/2 hours without reported casualties, while locals scrutinize the area's susceptibility to fires.

A fire erupted on Friday in one of Seoul's last-remaining shanty towns, destroying makeshift homes and forcing dozens to evacuate. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far as firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within about 6 1/2 hours, according to fire officials.

Local fire officer Jeong Gwang-hun announced in a televised briefing that rescue teams are diligently searching through the burned area for potential victims. Over 1,200 personnel, composed of firefighters and police officers, were dispatched to the scene. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire.

The vulnerability of Guryong village to fires is attributed to its densely packed homes built from easily flammable materials. Situated near some of Seoul's most affluent neighborhoods, the village has long symbolized South Korea's stark income inequalities. Established in the 1980s to house those displaced by redevelopment projects, it's a reminder of the city's pursuit of modernization before the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)