What Caused the Massive Fire at Kumho Tire's Plant in South Korea?
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Synopsis
A devastating fire broke out at Kumho Tire's plant in Gwangju, South Korea, leading to significant evacuations and production halts. With 80% of the fire contained, local residents are being supported. What caused this massive fire? Discover the details behind this urgent situation.
Key Takeaways
- Fire at Kumho Tire's Gwangju plant is 80% contained.
- About 460 firefighters are working on-site.
- Production has been halted.
- 182 local residents have evacuated.
- One employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Seoul, May 18 (NationPress) Firefighters have been tirelessly working to extinguish a significant fire at Kumho Tire's facility, with authorities estimating that the blaze is currently about 80 percent contained.
The incident commenced on Saturday morning at the factory located in Gwangju, approximately 270 kilometers southeast of Seoul. Around 460 personnel and 170 firefighting units have been deployed to control the situation, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have originated from equipment utilized for heating raw rubber. In light of this incident, Kumho Tire has suspended all production at the facility.
Kumho Tire CEO Jung Il-taik has expressed his sincere apologies for the disruption, promising comprehensive recovery efforts. He stated, "We will prioritize extinguishing the fire and will actively collaborate with authorities to minimize the inconvenience experienced by local residents who have evacuated."
A total of 182 residents from nearby apartments have been relocated to a shelter at Kwangju Women's University due to the fire.
Earlier, Kumho Tire halted operations at its Gwangju plant as a massive blaze engulfed a significant portion of the facility, leading authorities to issue a nationwide firefighting mobilization order as the fire persisted in spreading.
The fire ignited around 7:11 a.m. at the Gwangju factory, rapidly propagating through the plant buildings, with flames reportedly soaring up to 100 meters high, according to fire officials.
Kumho Tire, recognized as South Korea's second-largest tire manufacturer, announced that all production activities have been ceased at the site. Approximately 400 employees present during the incident were safely evacuated; however, one male worker in his 20s sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital, with his condition not deemed life-threatening.
Authorities suspect the fire's origin was linked to equipment used for heating raw rubber. They have indicated that it may require several days to completely extinguish the blaze, noting that around 20 tons of raw rubber stored at the factory has complicated firefighting efforts.
Point of View
The fire at Kumho Tire's plant not only highlights the urgent need for safety protocols in manufacturing but also raises concerns about community safety and environmental impact. The swift response from firefighters is commendable, and it is crucial for Kumho Tire to ensure transparent communication with the affected residents moving forward.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Kumho Tire's plant?
The fire is suspected to have originated from equipment used for heating raw rubber.
What is the current status of the fire?
Authorities estimate that the fire is approximately 80 percent contained.
How many residents were evacuated?
A total of 182 residents from nearby apartments were evacuated to a shelter.
What actions are being taken by Kumho Tire?
Kumho Tire has suspended production at the plant and is prioritizing recovery efforts.
Were there any injuries reported?
Yes, one male employee in his 20s sustained injuries and was taken to a local hospital.
