The Inje wildfire in northeastern South Korea spread rapidly on Saturday, prompting authorities to expand evacuations and close major roads. The blaze started around 1:11 p.m. in a mountainous area near Inje County, roughly 150 kilometers northeast of Seoul.
Dry weather and strong winds allowed the flames to move quickly. Smoke drifted toward nearby communities, triggering evacuation alerts. Local officials directed residents to seek safety in designated shelters throughout the region.
By mid-afternoon, the Korea Forest Service increased the wildfire alert from Level 1 to Level 2. This level indicates that the burned area could grow beyond 50 hectares but remain under 100 hectares.
Inje County officials advised residents to evacuate immediately. They opened four shelters, including gymnasiums and the Girin Administrative Welfare Center, to receive evacuees. Additionally, nearby towns such as Yangyang County, Sokcho City, and Goseong County issued disaster warnings. They urged residents to prepare for potential evacuations.
The Inje wildfire also caused major traffic disruptions. Authorities shut down both directions of the Seoul-Yangyang Expressway between Nachon Interchange and Yangyang Tollgate. They rerouted vehicles onto national highways to prevent accidents and allow emergency vehicles access.
Firefighting crews worked tirelessly to contain the Inje wildfire before nightfall. Officials deployed 19 helicopters, 34 fire engines, and hundreds of firefighters to tackle the blaze. Their goal was to stop the fire’s spread and protect nearby homes and forests.
Inje County, located in Gangwon Province, contains rugged and forested terrain. These features make the area particularly vulnerable to spring wildfires. Each year, the region faces fire risks during dry weather conditions.
As of late Saturday, officials reported no injuries or serious property damage. However, they warned that conditions might shift quickly and advised residents to remain alert. Emergency teams stayed on standby to continue response operations overnight if needed.
The Inje wildfire serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by dry seasons and fast-moving forest fires. Authorities remain focused on protecting residents and preventing further damage.
