What is the location of the wildfires?

As of March 28, 2025, numerous widespread wildfires are currently burning in southern South Korea (1). The fires, driven by high winds, are affecting the southeastern region of the country, including Gyeongsangbuk-do province. The fires have spread across multiple counties.

24 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 have impacted large portion of east-central South Korea. Cities affected include:

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

Thousands of residents in these locations have been 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 have burned 118,265 acres as of March 28. Containment efforts are ongoing, with thousands of firefighters and military personnel deployed, though the fire has been described as "almost contained (4)." Authorities have struggled to bring the fires under control due to strong, dry winds. The national fire agency has raised the crisis to the highest fire response level.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

More than 28,800 people have been evacuated from affected areas. Authorities have issued emergency evacuation orders, and shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced residents. The government continues to monitor the situation and has urged people to remain cautious.

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.