Massive Wildfire Forces Evacuation of Over 1,200 Residents in Daegu, South Korea

Daegu, South Korea — A fast-spreading wildfire swept through parts of Daegu on Monday, April 28, 2025, prompting the evacuation of more than 1,200 residents as strong winds and dry conditions intensified the blaze. The fire, which began on Mount Hamjisan in the central part of the city, quickly grew into a major emergency.

According to the Korea Forest Service, the wildfire broke out around 2:00 p.m. local time and burned through 50 hectares of land in under two hours. The rapid spread was fueled by high winds and extremely dry vegetation, causing immediate concern for nearby residential areas.

“The fire escalated rapidly due to strong winds and dry terrain, turning a local emergency into a large-scale disaster within minutes,” the Korea Forest Service stated.

As of 8:00 p.m., an estimated 151 hectares of forest had already been destroyed, with only 19% of the blaze contained. Flames reached nearby villages in southern Daegu, including Joya-dong, Nogok-dong, and Seobyeon-dong, posing a serious threat to homes and infrastructure.

Nationwide Response and Firefighting Efforts

In response, South Korea raised its wildfire alert to the highest level (Level 3) and deployed a massive task force. The Korea Forest Service mobilized 28 helicopters, 57 firefighting vehicles, and over 700 firefighters to combat the blaze. Two Surion helicopters, capable of operating at night, were kept in operation overnight, while around 160 firefighters continued battling the fire on the ground.

The Gyeongbu Expressway, a major highway linking Seoul and Daegu, was partially closed due to safety concerns. So far, no casualties or injuries have been reported, but authorities remain on high alert.

Rising Wildfire Risk in South Korea

This latest wildfire adds to a growing trend in 2025, as South Korea faces an uptick in forest fire incidents. According to the Ministry of Environment, more than 40 wildfires have been reported so far this year, with burned areas up by 35% compared to the same period last year.

Environmental experts have linked the rise in fire events to climate change, longer droughts, and unusually dry spring seasons. The government has begun implementing early warning systems and satellite monitoring technology to improve fire detection and response.

Investigation and Next Steps

Although the exact cause of the Daegu wildfire remains unknown, local authorities suspect the fire may have started in a restricted access area. An investigation will be launched as soon as the fire is under control.

Evacuated residents have been relocated to emergency shelters, where they are receiving medical assistance, food, and supplies. Firefighting efforts will continue into Tuesday morning with full aerial and ground support.

Quick Facts:

• 📍 Location: Mount Hamjisan, Daegu, South Korea
• 🕒 Fire started: April 28, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. KST
• 🔥 Area affected: 151 hectares (as of 8:00 p.m. KST)
• 🏃‍♂️ Evacuated: Over 1,200 residents
• 🚁 Aircraft deployed: 28 helicopters
• 👨‍🚒 Firefighters deployed: 704 personnel
• 🚫 Road closures: Sections of Gyeongbu Expressway
• 🩺 Casualties: None reported so far

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