Seoul, 26 March 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The death toll from the wildfires sweeping through south-eastern South Korea has risen to at least 22, with authorities fearing the numbers could continue to climb.

The official news agency Yonhap reported on Wednesday that at least 18 people had died in the south-east of the country since Tuesday afternoon alone, bringing the total toll to at least 22. One person was also missing and two people sustained serious injuries.

Over the weekend, four first responders had lost their lives while battling the fires.

According to Yonhap, around 5,000 firefighters and more than 140 helicopters are currently in action to combat the fires, which have already destroyed some 17,000 hectares of forest.

Authorities have declared at least four counties in the region disaster zones.

The fires, which began on Friday in Sancheong County, about 250 kilometres south-east of Seoul, have caused significant destruction. Several historical sites have been destroyed.

Goun Temple in Uiseong, built in 681, was destroyed, Yonhap reported, adding that national treasures stored in the ancient temple had been relocated before its destruction. The historic Hahoe village, which UNESCO declared a World Heritage site in 2010, is also threatened by the flames.

Authorities have ordered evacuations to protect residents.

The fires have been fuelled by dry winds and a prolonged drought, according to officials.

Wildfires are not uncommon in South Korea during dry spells. In recent years, both average temperatures and extreme weather events have increased in the country, significantly increasing the risk and severity of fires. Experts view the increase in wildfires as a sign of the ongoing effects of climate change.

Photo: EPA