Climate change made weather conditions leading to deadly South Korean wildfires about twice as likely

A massive forest fire occurred in Sancheong, Gyeongsangnam-do, with the image captured by the Gyeongnam Regional Government.

In March 2025, the southeastern part of Korea faced its most extensive and damaging wildfires on record.

Over 20,000 hectares more land burned compared to the second-worst wildfires in April 2022, totaling over 48,000 hectares affected. The fires resulted in 32 deaths, making them the deadliest wildfires in South Korea’s history. Additionally, 45 individuals were injured, and around 37,000 residents were displaced. Most victims were elderly, with Uiseong experiencing the highest death toll of 26, while four deaths occurred in Sancheong. The fires destroyed about 5,000 buildings, including homes and cultural heritage sites.

The fires primarily affected rural and suburban areas, particularly those where residential areas bordered forests. Notably, Uiseong lost the historic Gounsa Temple and 30 other cultural heritage sites. The wildfires were exacerbated by exceptionally low rainfall and high temperatures preceding the outbreak.

Researchers from several countries conducted a study to assess the impact of human-induced climate change on the wildfires. The study analyzed weather conditions and dryness levels in the region. The findings indicated that the wildfires were intensified by a combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, which are rare but increasingly likely due to climate change.

The study also highlighted the importance of managing forest fuel loads to mitigate the risk of future intense wildfires as climate change continues to impact weather conditions. South Korea has made strides in wildfire detection and response but needs to further align preparedness efforts with land-use planning to combat the growing threat of wildfires.