What is the location of the wildfires?

As of April 1, 2025, numerous widespread wildfires that were burning in southern South Korea are fully contained (1). The fires, driven by high winds, were affecting the southeastern region of the country, including Gyeongsangbuk-do province. The fires have spread across multiple counties.

30 people have died and 28,800 residents have evacuated (2). South Korea’s president has described the fires as the worst ever wildfires in South Korea’s history (3).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?

The fires impacted large portion of east-central South Korea. Cities affected included:

• Andong
• Bonghwa
• Cheongsong
• Mungyeong
• Uiseong
• Sancheong
• Yeongju
• Yeongyang

Thousands of residents in these locations were forced to evacuate, and historic sites such as the 1,300-year-old Gounsa Temple have been destroyed.

What is the current containment status of the wildfires?

The fires burned 118,265 acres as of March 28 and were fully contained as of April 1. Containment efforts are ongoing, Thousands of firefighters and military personnel were deployed. Authorities struggled to bring the fires under control due to strong, dry winds. The national fire agency raised the crisis to the highest fire response level.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

More than 28,800 people were evacuated from affected areas. Authorities issued emergency evacuation orders, and shelters were set up to accommodate displaced residents.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.

As of April 1, 2025, these fires are 100% contained.