Gyeongju, South Korea – South Korean fire authorities deployed 500 personnel supported by 20 firefighting helicopters on Monday in a major effort to completely extinguish a stubborn wildfire that has scorched at least 54 hectares (approximately 133 acres or the equivalent of 76 football pitches) in the southeastern city of Gyeongju.
The blaze first erupted on Saturday evening on a hillside in the eastern village of Ipcheon, rapidly spreading through dry vegetation and forcing the evacuation of nearly 70 residents, according to Seoul-based Yonhap News Agency.
Although firefighters initially brought the fire under control, the blaze reignited on Sunday night, prompting authorities to scale up operations significantly. The renewed outbreak required the mobilisation of additional resources from both the Korea Forest Service and the Republic of Korea Marine Corps.
By Monday, a combined force of 525 personnel and 20 helicopters was actively engaged in aerial and ground operations to suppress the remaining flames and prevent further spread. Authorities reported that the main body of the fire had been extinguished, but residual hotspots continued to flare up at night, necessitating sustained overnight efforts.
The wildfire has so far affected 54 hectares of forested and mountainous terrain. No fatalities or serious injuries have been reported, but the evacuations and disruption to local communities have underscored the severity of the incident during South Korea’s dry winter season, when strong winds and low humidity can rapidly accelerate fire spread.
Fire officials have cited challenging terrain, gusty winds, and the rekindling of embers as key factors complicating containment. Helicopters have been dropping water and fire retardant from above, while ground teams have worked to create firebreaks and douse hotspots.
Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its ancient temples, royal tombs, and historic sites, has seen parts of its surrounding natural landscape impacted. Authorities have assured the public that no major cultural heritage sites are currently threatened, though monitoring remains intensive.
The incident is the latest in a series of wildfires that have affected South Korea in recent years, often exacerbated by climate-driven dry spells and strong seasonal winds. Officials have urged residents in affected and nearby areas to remain vigilant, avoid forested zones, and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately.
As of Monday evening, firefighting teams continued their round-the-clock operations, with hopes that favourable weather conditions and the massive deployment would achieve full containment within the next 24–48 hours.
The Korea Forest Service and National Fire Agency have not yet released a final damage assessment or cause of the fire, but investigations are underway once the blaze is fully under control.
