Suspect in Deadly South Korean Wildfire Linked to Grave Ritual

A 56-year-old man in South Korea is being probed for allegedly igniting a catastrophic wildfire that resulted in a significant loss of life and destruction of cultural heritage sites.

A 56-year-old man in South Korea is currently under investigation for allegedly starting a deadly wildfire while performing a traditional ritual at his family grave on a hill in Uiseong County, North Gyeongsang Province. Although the man, whose identity remains undisclosed, has been booked, he has yet to be arrested and is set to be questioned after authorities complete their examination of the incident site. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The wildfire, which has wreaked havoc for over ten days, was finally brought under full control as of Sunday. During its course, the fire claimed 30 lives and caused massive destruction to homes and historic structures, including Goun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in 618 AD and one of the largest temples in the region.

Eyewitness accounts suggest the blaze may have started when the suspect attempted to burn low-hanging tree branches with a cigarette lighter, as confirmed by statements from his daughter. According to the Korea Forest Service, more than 48,000 hectares were consumed—approximately 80% of the area of Seoul—along with around 4,000 structures devastated, including residential homes and various factories.

The rapid growth of the flames was exacerbated by exceptionally dry and warm weather and strong winds in the region, with most casualties reported among the elderly community, aged primarily in their 60s and 70s.

An in-depth investigation is set to commence next week, with the collaboration of police, fire authorities, and forest management experts. Furthermore, Acting President Han Duck-soo announced that financial assistance would be made available to those who lost their homes in this calamitous event.