Firefighters, Helicopters Battle Wildfire in South Korea

2026-02-23 02:49:04

(MENAFN) South Korea has deployed hundreds of firefighters, supported by helicopters, to contain a wildfire in a southern county that has persisted for a third day, as stated by reports.

The fire broke out on Saturday in Hamyang County, South Gyeongsang Province, and has scorched 190 hectares (469 acres) of land, with containment reaching 32% by Monday morning, according to reports citing local forestry authorities.

More than 600 personnel were dispatched overnight to prevent the blaze from spreading into residential areas, though steep terrain and strong winds have hindered firefighting operations. In addition, 51 helicopters are being sent to assist in the effort.

Prime Minister Kim Min-seok visited the area on Monday to review firefighting measures and offer support to on-site personnel.

Authorities elevated the response to Level 2 on Sunday, a status triggered when fires threaten to burn more than 100 hectares (247 acres), winds exceed 11 meters per second, or containment is expected to take over 48 hours. The National Fire Agency simultaneously issued a nationwide firefighting mobilization order.

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