Massive wildfires in Sancheong, southeastern South Korea are destroying forests, homes, and villages. Lives have been lost, thousands evacuated, and firefighters are battling the flames day and night. A devastating situation for many. However, in the middle of this disaster, hope is shining through. Some of South Korea’s most well-known stars are stepping up to help. They donate money, send messages of comfort, and show their support for the victims. Their kindness is bringing light to a very dark moment.
Sancheong Fire: How It Started and Spread
South Korea is facing terrible wildfires in recent years. Over the weekend, over two dozen blazes erupted across the country’s southeastern regions, prompting a national disaster declaration and a massive mobilization of emergency response teams.
The first wildfires was sparked by a lawn mower on Friday afternoon in Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, approximately 300 kilometers from Seoul. Fanned by dry, windy conditions, the flames quickly spread across mountainous terrain, threatening nearby towns and displacing thousands of residents.
By Sunday night, nearly 9,000 emergency personnel and 120 helicopters had been deployed to contain the fires. While firefighters had subdued most of the blazes by Monday morning, four significant fires continued to burn in Uiseong, Ulju (Ulsan), Gimhae, and Sancheong.
In Uiseong, the fire began as mourners paid tribute at a grave. That blaze alone has scorched nearly 17,000 acres of land and continues to threaten nearby communities. Over 2,740 residents have been evacuated, many now taking refuge in temporary shelters. The disaster has also destroyed 162 buildings, including a historic temple in Uiseong.
Lives Lost, Homes Destroyed: The Human Toll of the Wildfires
Amid the heroic firefighting efforts, tragedy struck. Four civil servants lost their lives while battling the blaze in Sancheong County. Several others, including firefighters and residents, sustained injuries ranging from minor burns to severe trauma.
On Saturday, strong winds stranded eight firefighters and a civil servant during a critical operation. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched. While some were safely evacuated, two bodies were recovered that evening, followed by two more later at the fire site. Police are in the process of confirming their identities.
The fire in Sancheong alone displaced 263 residents across seven villages. Acting President Choi Sang-mok expressed his condolences and ordered full support for the victims and frontline workers. He also initiated measures to designate the most affected areas as special disaster zones, enabling faster aid and recovery.
Some Korean Stars Step In to Help
Amid destruction and despair, some of South Korea’s most beloved stars have come forward with compassion and generosity, offering hope and help to those affected by the relentless wildfires.
Actor Im Si-wan, known for his emotional performances, donated 30 million won to the Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association. In a heartfelt message, he said,
“The pain of those who lost their homes so suddenly must be unimaginable. I hope this brings them some comfort.”
Im Si-wan
Meanwhile, So You-jin, an actress and mother, made a matching donation of 30 million won through the Korean Red Cross. Her support will aid victims across the hardest-hit regions, including Sancheong, Uiseong, and Ulju.
“I hope this small help reaches those who’ve lost everything.”
So You-jin
K-pop idol WINNER Kim Jin-woo also contributed 10 million won, reinforcing the message that no act of kindness is too small in times of crisis.
Another generous contribution came from national MC Yoo Jae Suk, who donated a staggering 50 million won. His donation history with Hope Bridge now totals over 1.05 billion won, making him one of the organization’s most consistent and impactful supporters.
“He hopes those affected can return to their normal lives soon.”
Yoo Jae Suk’s agency.
Chun Woo Hee, acclaimed for her roles in film and drama, also joined the cause with a donation, quietly standing in solidarity with those who have lost everything.
Together, these celebrities are using their influence to uplift, restore, and inspire. They exist to remind that true heroes don’t always wear uniforms.
Join us on Kpoppost’s Instagram, Threads, Facebook, X, Telegram channel, WhatsApp Channel and Discord server for discussions. And follow Kpoppost’s Google News for more Korean entertainment news and updates. You can also join our exclusive membership. You might be able to join our upcoming exclusive community events and win exciting prizes!
