South Korea Helicopter Crash: Pilot Killed as Chopper Fighting Wildfires Crashes in Uiseong

A helicopter was deployed to contain bush fires in the South Kora region of Gyeongbuk in Uiseong. According to international media reports, the crash occurred at 12:54 pm (South Korean local time) on a mountain in Uiseong, approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Seoul. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident. ​

The wildfires, driven by strong winds, have led to the deaths of 18 people and destroyed over 200 structures, including an ancient Buddhist temple, houses, factories, and vehicles. Over 27,000 residents were evacuated from their homes and moved to safer places. South Korea’s acting President, Han Duck-soo, said the wildfires that began last Friday were causing worse damage than many other past wildfires.

Approximately 4,650 personnel and 130 helicopters are engaged in firefighting efforts. The government has raised the wildfire warning to the highest level and is investigating potential human causes for the fires. ​