Investigation Launched into Deadly Wildfire in South Korea Linked to Ancestral Rite

A 56-year-old man is being probed for sparking a catastrophic wildfire in Uiseong county, South Korea, that has claimed the lives of 30 individuals and destroyed cultural heritage sites, including a UNESCO World Heritage site. Authorities suspect the fire ignited during his rituals, leading to considerable devastation across the region.

A 56-year-old individual from Uiseong county in South Gyeongsang province, South Korea, is under scrutiny following allegations that he ignited a catastrophic wildfire during an ancestral rite at a family grave. The wildfire has resulted in the unfortunate deaths of 30 people, with the individual denying any wrongdoing. While he has been booked, he has not yet been arrested and will face questioning once investigators finish assessing the site.

The wildfire, which began ten days ago, has caused extensive damage, consuming over 48,000 hectares—an area approximately 80% the size of Seoul—and destroying around 4,000 structures, including homes, factories, and significant heritage sites such as Goun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site established in AD 618.

Reports indicate that the fire may have ignited when the suspect attempted to burn tree branches with a cigarette lighter, as described by his daughter to investigators. Most of the fire's casualties were older individuals in their 60s and 70s. Although the primary blaze has been contained, smaller flare-ups continue to occur due to strong winds and dry conditions exacerbated by unseasonably warm weather.

In response to the crisis, South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo announced financial support for those affected by the fire. An investigation involving various authorities is set to commence next week to determine the full extent of the disaster and assess any potential liabilities.