FIREFIGHTERS in South Korea are battling a wildfire considered as the largest in the country’s history, affecting more than 35,810 hectares, approximately half of the size of New York City.

Authorities ordered the evacuation of tens of thousands of individuals while 27 people have been confirmed dead, a report by BBC said.

The report added that 32 persons sustained severe injuries.

Video footage showed a lighter on a gravesite, prompting authorities to believe that the fire was ignited by the visitors.

Ancient temples, built millions of years ago, holding deep historical significance, were destroyed. Among them were the Gounsa Temple, the largest in the province, and the Buddhist Architectural Structure, recognized as a national treasure from the Joseon Dynasty.

The two Unesco-listed sites—Hahoe Village and Byeongsan Seowon in Andong City are being prioritized and authorities are focusing their efforts in safeguarding the heritage sites.

With the wildfire raging on, artefacts including wooden printing blocks and paintings are being placed in major temples.

A government official assigned to the emergency response, Lee Han-gyeong, considers this as proof of significant climate shifts.

"We are witnessing the reality of [the] climate crisis like never before,” Lee said.(Grace Fegarido, USJ-R Comm Intern)

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• #South Korea
• #Wildfire
• #Deadliest Fire
• #Gounsa Temple
• #Hahoe Village
• #Buddhist Architectural Structure
• #Byeongsan Seowon