Suspect Under Investigation for Deadly South Korea Wildfires

Authorities have begun a detailed investigation into the origins of a wildfire that ravaged South Korea, killing dozens and destroying historic sites, with a suspect reportedly linked to the incident.

A 56-year-old man is currently under investigation in connection with a catastrophic wildfire in South Korea that resulted in the deaths of at least 30 individuals. The unidentified man was allegedly performing ancestral rites at a family grave located on a hillside in Uiseong county, North Gyeongsang province, when the incident occurred. While he has been officially listed as a suspect, he is not yet under arrest, as authorities are conducting a thorough examination of the fire site before engaging him for questioning. He has publicly denied any wrongdoing.

On Sunday, officials reported that the main conflagration has been successfully contained following a prolonged battle lasting over ten days. The wildfire wreaked havoc on both nature and infrastructure, resulting in the destruction of an estimated 4,000 structures, including homes and factories, alongside significant cultural losses, such as the historic Goun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to AD 618.

According to investigators, the suspect's daughter indicated that the fire ignited when her father attempted to burn away overhanging tree branches using a cigarette lighter. Covering a staggering area of over 48,000 hectares — which is roughly 80% the size of Seoul — the fire was exacerbated by factors such as strong winds, unseasonably warm weather, dry conditions, and the prevalence of pine forests in the region.

Despite the primary fire being under control, smaller blazes persist and threaten to rekindle due to the existing environmental conditions. Authorities explained that the majority of the casualties were older adults in their 60s and 70s.

In response to the crisis, South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo announced that the government would extend financial aid to residents displaced by the wildfires. A comprehensive investigation involving police, fire authorities, and forest management is expected to commence next week to dissect the events leading to this national disaster.