President Yoon Expresses Sympathy for Wildfire Casualties in South Korea
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Synopsis
On March 23, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed his condolences for the firefighters and officials who died while fighting wildfires. He urged the government to use all resources to combat the ongoing fires affecting several regions, which have led to significant evacuations and a national disaster declaration.
Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol expresses condolences for wildfire victims.
- Four firefighters and officials lost their lives during the battle against fires.
- Concerns raised about ongoing wildfires in five regions.
- Over 3,286 hectares of land have been affected.
- 1,500 residents evacuated to temporary shelters.
Seoul, March 23 (NationPress) The impeached President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, extended his heartfelt condolences on Sunday for the brave firefighters and government personnel who tragically lost their lives while combating wildfires.
This statement was Yoon's second public address following his release from detention on March 8, which occurred due to procedural issues linked to the investigation surrounding his brief martial law declaration in December.
In a message posted on Facebook, Yoon stated, "I mourn the loss of the four firefighters and public officials who tragically lost their lives while battling the wildfires."
He also voiced concerns regarding the ongoing wildfires that are still affecting five regions, emphasizing the increasing number of evacuees. He called on the government to deploy all available resources to quickly extinguish the flames and assist those impacted, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The wildfire originated in Sancheong County, approximately 250 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on Friday and has since spread to adjacent areas.
So far, an area of 3,286.11 hectares, which is roughly equivalent to 4,600 football fields, has been consumed by the fire, with over 1,000 hectares devastated in Euiseong in North Gyeongsang Province and Sancheong.
Approximately 1,500 residents have been displaced, seeking refuge in temporary shelters as authorities work diligently to control the fires.
By 8 a.m., firefighters were actively engaged in extinguishing wildfires in four distinct areas within the southeastern part of the country.
On Saturday, the South Korean government declared a state of national disaster in response to the widespread wildfires in the southeastern regions, which have claimed four lives.
This declaration was made as multiple wildfires were reported in Ulsan city and other counties in the southeast, including Sancheong County.
The acting president, Choi, visited the affected area on Saturday and instructed relevant agencies to make every effort to mobilize all necessary equipment and personnel to extinguish the fire before sunset.
He also emphasized the importance of safety for residents and firefighters on-site, underscoring the need for comprehensive preparations in case the fire continues overnight.
