Seoul: At least 24 people have lost their lives as wildfires ravage southeastern South Korea. Authorities confirmed on Wednesday that a firefighting helicopter crashed during efforts to manage the rampant blazes.

According to Anadolu Agency, the fires have also resulted in 26 injuries, with 12 individuals in critical condition. Among the casualties was a 73-year-old pilot whose S-76 helicopter, in operation for 30 years, crashed while combating the fires in Uiseong, approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Seoul. Following this tragic incident, authorities have grounded all firefighting helicopters.

Acting President Han Duck-soo has described the wildfires as the worst in the nation's history, urging for comprehensive efforts to halt their progression. He noted that the fires have devastated 17,000 hectares of land, destroying 209 homes and factories in their wake.

The fires have disrupted lives significantly, including the evacuation of around 500 inmates from a prison in North Gyeongsang Province. Additionally, the historic Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, built in 681 AD during the Silla Dynasty, was severely damaged. Thankfully, cultural officials managed to relocate the temple's 9th-century Stone Seated Buddha and other historical artifacts before the fire reached the site.

Since the wildfires erupted last Friday in Sancheong County, South Gyeongsang Province, thousands of firefighters, numerous helicopters, and emergency vehicles have been deployed to combat the fires. Strong, dry winds have facilitated the rapid northward spread of the fires to various regions including Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok.