Devastating Wildfires in South Korea: What Muslim Travellers Need to Know

South Korea, a country known for its vibrant cities, lush landscapes, and deep cultural heritage, is facing one of its worst wildfire disasters in history. Over the past several days, massive fires have been raging across the southeastern regions, leaving behind a trail of destruction, heartbreak, and uncertainty for residents and travellers alike.

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The unfolding crisis

Image credit: Yonhap | Reuters

As of 26 Mar 2025, at least 24 people have lost their lives, and over 20 have been injured as wildfires spread across multiple areas. Firefighters and soldiers are working around the clock, but the unpredictable winds and dry conditions have made it nearly impossible to fully contain the flames. What started as a few fires over the weekend has escalated into a full-blown disaster, forcing the evacuation of around 27,000 people and burning through more than 17,000 hectares (42,000 acres) of forest.

Where are the fires?

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The fires ignited in Sancheong County in North Gyeongsang Province before spreading to Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok counties. These areas are known for their rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, making this disaster particularly devastating. Officials have been scrambling to issue evacuation orders as the fires continue to threaten more towns and villages.

A threat to South Korea’s heritage

Image credit: Yasuyoshi Chiba | AFP

Beyond the human cost, the flames have also claimed historic sites and cultural treasures. The 1,000-year-old Gounsa Buddhist temple in Uiseong, a revered landmark built in 681 AD, has been reduced to ashes. Thankfully, authorities managed to transfer the temple’s national treasures to a safe location before the fire reached them.

Image credit: Yasuyoshi Chiba | AFP

One of South Korea’s most famous historical attractions, the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, is also at risk. With the wildfire only about 8 kilometres (5 miles) away, emergency crews have been working tirelessly to prevent further destruction. Firefighters have been dousing thatched roofs with water to keep the flames from spreading. For travellers who have long dreamed of walking through this preserved piece of Korea’s past, this is an especially heartbreaking moment.

An unprecedented disaster

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Even South Korea’s acting President Han Duck-soo admitted that these wildfires have surpassed anything officials had prepared for. He stated that the fires have exceeded all prediction models and are behaving in ways never seen before. Strong winds have only made matters worse, pushing the flames further than expected and making containment efforts incredibly difficult.

In a desperate bid to control the fires, the South Korean military has deployed 5,000 service members alongside thousands of firefighters. A staggering 146 helicopters have been sent to help battle the blazes from above. Unfortunately, the firefighting efforts have also come with tragedy—a pilot lost his life when his helicopter crashed while attempting to contain the fire in Uiseong.

What Muslim travellers need to know

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For those planning trips to South Korea, it’s crucial to stay informed. The affected regions are currently unsafe for travel, and visitors should avoid these areas until the fires are fully contained. Many roads have been closed, and emergency services are prioritising evacuations and firefighting efforts. If you're in South Korea, monitor official updates from the Korea Forest Service and local news to stay aware of changing conditions.

If you have plans to visit Andong’s Hahoe Folk Village, Gounsa Temple, or other sites in the North Gyeongsang region, it’s best to postpone your trip. Instead, consider exploring alternative destinations such as Gyeongju, Busan, or Jeonju, which offer incredible cultural and historical experiences while remaining safe from the fires.

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Looking ahead

Image credit: @WeatherMonitors | Official X

While South Korea continues to battle this disaster, the resilience of its people is undeniable. Efforts to rebuild and restore the affected areas will begin as soon as the fires are extinguished. The country has faced natural disasters before and emerged stronger each time. For now, all eyes are on the brave firefighters, military personnel, and volunteers risking their lives to bring this tragedy under control.

As travellers and global citizens, we can only hope for swift containment and recovery. If you love South Korea and its rich cultural heritage, consider supporting local organisations that will be helping with disaster relief in the coming months.

For those currently in South Korea, stay safe, stay informed, and avoid the affected areas until further notice.