At Least 18 Dead as Raging Wildfires Sweep Through South Korea

Deadly Wildfires in South Korea Leave at Least 18 Dead as Government Issues Highest Alert

Wildfires raging across South Korea have claimed the lives of at least 18 people, causing what authorities describe as "unprecedented damage", Acting President Han Duck-soo announced on Wednesday.

Tragedy struck further when a helicopter involved in firefighting operations crashed, killing the pilot, according to the official Yonhap News Agency.

During an emergency safety and disaster response meeting, Han warned that the situation was escalating rapidly. "The wildfires are developing beyond existing prediction models and earlier expectations," he said.

Declaring it a "full-scale national response," Han confirmed that the government has raised the crisis alert to its highest level, vowing to deploy all available resources to control the fires and protect affected communities.

Rescue and containment efforts continue to face challenges due to strong dry winds and persistent drought conditions.

Evacuees Flee in Panic as South Korea Wildfires Rage On

Many residents were forced to flee their homes with little to no warning as massive wildfires swept through several regions of South Korea.

"The fire came down from the mountain and engulfed my house," said Kwon So-han, a 79-year-old resident of Andong, speaking to AFP. "Those who haven’t experienced this won’t understand. I escaped with nothing but my life."

The government has assured that efforts are underway to provide shelter and support for those displaced. Acting President Han Duck-soo confirmed that evacuees are being moved to temporary shelters, with authorities working to deliver emergency aid and financial assistance.

Weather forecasts predict rainfall on Wednesday, raising hopes that the conditions may help contain the fires and support ongoing rescue operations.

While wildfires are not uncommon in South Korea during the dry season, experts warn that climate change is intensifying their scale and impact, making such disasters increasingly severe.