Wildfire Near Buksang-myeon, Geochang Extinguished in 27 Minutes

The site near Nongsan-ri, Buksang-myeon, Geochang-gun, Gyeongnam, where the wildfire suppression has been completed. Provided by Korea Forest Service

At approximately 4:05 p.m. on November 21, a fire broke out in a forested area near Nongsan-ri, Buksang-myeon, Geochang-gun, Gyeongnam Province.

The forestry authorities deployed five wildfire suppression helicopters, 18 fire trucks, and 98 personnel, successfully extinguishing the fire by around 4:32 p.m.

Afterward, authorities began monitoring the site to prevent any rekindling and are currently investigating the cause of the fire, the exact area affected, and the extent of property damage through a wildfire investigation and inspection team.

According to the forestry authorities, even if a wildfire is caused by minor negligence, the person responsible may face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won under Article 53 of the Forest Protection Act.

The Korea Forest Service and Gyeongnam Province emphasized, "Even a small spark, if neglected, can lead to a large-scale wildfire," and urged the public to refrain from illegal burning of trash or agricultural waste and to thoroughly manage fire sources.