Unprecedented Wildfires in South Korea
Unprecedented wildfires have devastated South Korea’s southern regions, claiming 24 lives and forcing over 28,000 residents to evacuate as they ravaged more than 300 structures.
Impact on Gounsa Temple
Among the casualties is the historic Gounsa temple, dating back to 681 A.D. during the Shilla dynasty. This ancient Buddhist temple complex, located in Uiseong at the foot of Deungun Mountain, lost two national treasure buildings:
- The revered Gaunru pavilion, built in 1668
- Yeonsujeon, constructed in 1904
Both structures are significant cultural assets designated for state protection.
Extent of the Destruction
The fires, fueled by strong winds, saw around 20 of Gounsa’s 30 structures destroyed. Despite the destruction, dedicated monks successfully safeguarded the temple’s third treasure, an 8th-century stone Buddha statue. As senior monk Doryun expressed, while the loss is profound, the preservation of other sacred assets offers hope for the temple’s future.
Cultural Heritage Preservation
The Korea Heritage Service confirmed that lower-level cultural assets, including a stone pagoda, remain intact. The ongoing wildfires underscore the urgent need for fire management and conservation efforts in preserving South Korea’s rich cultural heritage.
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