PHOTOS: Wildfire threatens UNESCO heritage sites in Andong

SEOUL, March 26 (AJP) - Authorities are scrambling to protect two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, as a massive wildfire sends smoke billowing into the historic villages.

Andong Hahoe Village and Byeongsan Seowon were engulfed in thick smoke on Wednesday morning, prompting a swift response from fire and forestry officials.

Crews are deploying water cannons and other equipment to douse the villages and surrounding homes in an effort to prevent the fire from reaching the areas.

26일 경북 안동시 하회마을이 회색 연기와 연무로 가득하다 — Smoke from a nearby wildfire fills the air over the UNESCO World Heritage site of Andong Hahoe Village in North Gyeongsang Province, March 26, 2025. Yonhap

Smoke from a nearby wildfire fills the air over the UNESCO World Heritage site of Andong Hahoe Village in North Gyeongsang Province, March 26, 2025. Yonhap

Fire crews stand by with equipment near Andong Hahoe Village, March 26, 2025. Yonhap

A firefighter sprays water on a traditional house in Andong Hahoe Village, March 25, as a precaution against a nearby wildfire. Yonhap

Firefighters are on standby at Byeongsan Seowon in Andong, March 26, amid concerns about a nearby wildfire. Courtesy of the National Heritage Administration

A fire truck sprays water on buildings and trees near Byeongsan Seowon, March 26, as a preventative measure against a wildfire. Yonhap

Cho Bo-hee jobo@ajupress.com

PHOTOS: Wildfire threatens UNESCO heritage sites in Andong

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