Wildfire damage in South Korea has reached alarming levels this year, registering 16 times the damage area from the same period last year, with 89 incidents recorded in the first ten days of the month. The increased dry conditions along the East Coast and in the Yeongnam region, combined with a spike in visitors during the lunar New Year holiday for ancestral tomb visits, have led to heightened concerns about fire risks. The government, through seven agencies, released a public statement regarding wildfire prevention and the raised level of alert to 'caution' for the first time in January since the alert system was established.

Reports indicate that a significant portion of the wildfires, 73% over the past decade, has been attributed to human carelessness, such as arson and illegal burning. In anticipation of greater outdoor activity during the holiday, authorities have urged the public to avoid carrying flammable materials during tomb-sweeping activities, refrain from engaging in activities that could generate sparks, and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. This highlights the need for increased public awareness and responsibility in mitigating fire risks during a time of increased susceptibility.

In response to the crisis, the government has advanced the beginning of measures against spring wildfires and activated disaster response units early. They mobilized resources, including helicopters and personnel from various agencies, to address any outbreaks quickly. The Minister of Interior and Safety emphasized that individual action is crucial in preventing further wildfires, which align with the government's ongoing efforts to ensure safety and prevent devastating large-scale fires in the country.