The wildfires in South Korea have caused devastating destruction, with a rising death toll of at least 27 people and dozens more injured.

The fires, which have been burning since last Friday in the southeastern region, have already consumed an alarming 36,000 hectares of forest, making them the largest wildfire in South Korea’s history.

Thousands of people have been displaced, with around 37,000 residents evacuated to emergency shelters.

The destruction had also impacted vital historical sites, including Goun Temple, built in 681, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hahoe village, both threatened by the relentless flames.

Despite the light rainfall forecast for Thursday, it is unlikely to aid in firefighting efforts significantly.

Water shortages and power outages were compounding the already dire situation for affected areas.

The fires have been exacerbated by dry winds and an ongoing drought, both of which have intensified the impact of the fires.

This crisis was also seen as part of the broader global trend of increasing wildfires, driven by climate change.

Experts believe the rising number and severity of such fires in South Korea and worldwide reflected the ongoing environmental shifts caused by global warming.

The situation is dire, and the full extent of the damage and loss is still unfolding.

(dpa/NAN)