Death Toll Rises to 22 as South Korea Battles Severe Wildfires

Wildfires in southeastern South Korea have resulted in at least 22 fatalities and significant destruction, with around 5,000 firefighters and over 140 helicopters deployed to combat the blazes. The fires, which began in Sancheong County, have consumed approximately 43,000 acres, including the destruction of historic sites such as a 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Authorities have declared disaster zones and issued emergency alerts due to the unprecedented damage and ongoing risk to communities. Dry weather and strong winds have exacerbated the situation, complicating firefighting efforts and forcing the evacuation of over 5,500 residents from affected areas. South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo has raised the crisis alert to its highest level, acknowledging that the damage is greater than previous wildfires. Experts attribute the increasing frequency and severity of such wildfires to the effects of climate change.