Inferno in South Korea's Southeast: Wildfires Ravage Historic Sites

Wildfires in South Korea's southeast prompt evacuations of thousands, including prisoners, as they threaten historic sites. Four people have died and landmarks, such as ancient temples, have been destroyed. Acting President Han Duck-soo has promised firefighting reinforcements to battle the flames and protect affected areas.

The southeastern region of South Korea is under siege as wildfires rapidly spread, forcing authorities to evacuate thousands, including inmates from local prisons. The fires have claimed four lives and threaten significant cultural landmarks.

In Andong, a city of 150,000 residents, officials have issued evacuation alerts as the renowned Hahoe Folk Village remains precariously close to the advancing flames. With strong winds fueling the fires, historic Buddhist temples have already been devastated, leaving communities heartbroken.

Designated as 'special disaster zones,' authorities are scrambling to curtail the damage. Acting President Han Duck-soo has pledged to deploy additional helicopters and personnel to combat the wildfires and protect vulnerable regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)