Grave Ritual Sparks South Korea's Deadliest Wildfire

A man performing an ancestral rite at a family grave in Uiseong county, South Korea, is suspected of accidentally starting the country's largest and deadliest wildfire.

The blaze killed at least 26 to 30 people, destroyed thousands of buildings, and damaged historic temples and forests. The 56-year-old man is under investigation by police, who believe the fire began during the traditional grave-tending activity. The incident has raised concerns about fire safety during cultural rituals, especially in dry conditions.

Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage and potential legal consequences.