A 56-year-old man has come under investigation for allegedly starting a wildfire in South Korea that took 30 lives and destroyed significant cultural landmarks, including the Goun Temple. Initially ignited while tending to a family grave, the situation has led officials to vow increased support for affected families.
Investigation Launched After Suspected Arsonist Linked to Devastating South Korea Wildfires
Investigation Launched After Suspected Arsonist Linked to Devastating South Korea Wildfires
A man performing ancestral rites is under investigation for allegedly igniting wildfires in South Korea that resulted in tragic fatalities and historic losses.
A 56-year-old man in South Korea is facing scrutiny regarding his potential role in a catastrophic wildfire that claimed the lives of 30 individuals. The unnamed suspect was engaged in an ancestral rite on a hill in Uiseong county, North Gyeongsang province, when the fire reportedly ignited. While he has been identified as a person of interest, he has not yet been arrested and maintains his innocence. Authorities plan to question him once the site investigation concludes.
As of Sunday, officials announced that the fires, which had spread for over ten days, were finally under complete control. The rampant flames caused extensive destruction, leading to significant property damage, including historic temples such as Goun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in 618 AD. The Korea Forest Service reported that the wildfire decimated over 48,000 hectares, approximately 80% of the area of the capital, Seoul.
Witnesses have indicated that the fire might have started when the man's daughter told investigators that her father attempted to burn tree branches near the gravesite using a cigarette lighter. The fires have primarily affected older citizens, most of whom are in their 60s and 70s.
The situation was exacerbated by a combination of unexpected warm weather, dry conditions, and the prevalence of pine forests, which facilitated the rapid spread of the flames across multiple cities and counties. A comprehensive investigation is set to take place next week, involving police, fire authorities, and forest management agencies.
In response to this tragedy, Acting President Han Duck-soo declared that the government would offer financial aid to those displaced by the disaster, aiming to support the victims and the rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of this devastating wildfire.
