The Republic of Korea (ROK) faces its most devastating wildfires on record, with flames ravaging vast areas since March 21, 2025. According to the ROK Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, the fires have scorched over 48,000 hectares, claiming 30 lives, injuring 45, and destroying more than 3,500 homes. Thirty national heritage sites also suffered damage, compounding cultural losses.
In North Gyeongsang Province, among the hardest-hit regions, residents like Jo Soo-gap of Yeongdeok County described total devastation. "My house and everything inside turned to ashes," Jo told reporters, urging government support for rebuilding efforts. Meanwhile, Kim Woo-seok of the Pohang Medical Association warned of lingering health risks, including respiratory illnesses and psychological trauma among displaced families.
Authorities continue firefighting operations as the scale of recovery challenges comes into focus. The disaster highlights vulnerabilities to climate-related emergencies in densely populated regions, resonating with global readers and policymakers tracking Asia’s environmental resilience.
