Fire at Cheongju EcoProBM Factory... 3 Rescued, 1 Trapped (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] At the Cheongju factory of the secondary battery materials company Ecopro BM, an unknown fire broke out on the 21st, trapping one employee.

According to the fire authorities, a large fire occurred around 3 p.m. on the 4th floor of the six-story Ecopro BM factory in Ochang-eup, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungbuk.

As of 5:50 p.m., the large flames have been contained. However, smoldering fires remain on the 5th and 6th floors, and firefighting efforts are ongoing.

Lee Sung-yong, head of the Prevention and Safety Division at Cheongju Dongbu Fire Station, said, "Three employees who were inside the burning building were rescued, but one is presumed to be trapped," adding, "The internal structure is complex, making the search difficult."

The three rescued individuals (two with minor injuries and one with serious injuries) were transferred to a hospital, but their lives are not in danger.

The fire reportedly started in the boiler room on the 4th floor of the factory, according to the fire authorities. Lee explained, "It appears the fire was caused by an explosion accident," and added, "There is no concern about the building collapsing."

The fire authorities issued a Level 2 response at 3:40 p.m. and are focusing all efforts on extinguishing the fire. Personnel and equipment have been supported by the Central 119 Rescue Headquarters and nearby fire stations in Cheongju (Daejeon and Sejong). So far, 105 firefighters and 33 vehicles have been deployed to the scene.