In a tragic turn of events in South Korea, a man is under investigation for allegedly igniting a wildfire that claimed 30 lives. The 56-year-old, who has not been named, was carrying out an ancestral rite on a hill in Uiseong county when the fire reportedly started. He is yet to be arrested but will face questioning once investigators complete their site assessment and he has denied the charges.
After 10 agonizing days, the main fire has finally been brought under control. However, it left deep scars, destroying around 48,000 hectares and approximately 4,000 buildings, including the historic Goun Temple, a Unesco World Heritage Site that dates back to AD 618. Investigators have spoken to the suspect's daughter, who states her father was using a lighter to burn branches over the graves when the blaze ignited.
Most of the victims were elderly citizens and many smaller fires continue to flare up despite efforts to manage the situation. Factors such as strong winds, dry weather, and traditional pine forests have intensified the wildfires in the area. In response, the acting President Han Duck-soo has pledged financial aid for those affected by this natural disaster.
After 10 agonizing days, the main fire has finally been brought under control. However, it left deep scars, destroying around 48,000 hectares and approximately 4,000 buildings, including the historic Goun Temple, a Unesco World Heritage Site that dates back to AD 618. Investigators have spoken to the suspect's daughter, who states her father was using a lighter to burn branches over the graves when the blaze ignited.
Most of the victims were elderly citizens and many smaller fires continue to flare up despite efforts to manage the situation. Factors such as strong winds, dry weather, and traditional pine forests have intensified the wildfires in the area. In response, the acting President Han Duck-soo has pledged financial aid for those affected by this natural disaster.
