​In March 2025, South Korea faced its most devastating wildfires, resulting in at least 26 fatalities and the displacement of thousands. The fires originated in Uiseong County and rapidly spread across the southeastern regions, consuming over 33,000 hectares (81,500 acres) of land.

Extent of Damage:

  • Casualties: The death toll reached 26, including a helicopter pilot involved in firefighting efforts and four firefighters who were overtaken by fast-moving flames.
  • Displacement: More than 37,000 residents were forced to evacuate their homes due to the advancing fires.
  • Property Loss: Over 300 structures were destroyed, among them historic sites such as the Gounsa temple complex, where approximately 20 out of 30 structures were burned, including two designated national treasures.

Response Efforts:

The South Korean government mobilized extensive resources to combat the wildfires:​

  • Personnel and Equipment: Approximately 9,000 firefighters and 120 helicopters were deployed to battle the blazes.
  • Military Support: The military provided aviation fuel to support aerial firefighting operations.
  • Evacuations: Authorities ordered evacuations in multiple villages, including areas near the historic Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which was threatened by the fires.

Challenges and Causes:

Efforts to contain the wildfires were hindered by:​

  • Weather Conditions: Strong winds and dry weather facilitated the rapid spread of the fires, complicating firefighting operations.
  • Human Factors: Investigations suggest that some fires may have been caused by human activities, such as clearing overgrown grass from family tombs.

Government Actions:

In response to the crisis:​

  • Emergency Measures: The Korea Forest Service raised its wildfire warning to the highest level, prompting local governments to enhance emergency response efforts and advising military units to suspend live-fire exercises.
  • Leadership Statements: Acting President Han Duck-soo described the situation as unprecedented, emphasizing the rapid spread and severity of the wildfires.

Environmental Impact:

The wildfires have raised concerns about environmental degradation and the role of climate change in increasing the frequency and intensity of such disasters. Experts suggest that higher temperatures and prolonged dry conditions have contributed to the heightened fire risk.