Image of the day
Devastating wildfire in South Korea
Earth Observation | Copernicus
Cities
Fires
Location: South Korea
Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery
Since 23 March 2025, South Korea has faced its most destructive wildfire in recent history. The fire began in Uiseong County and quickly spread across North Gyeongsang Province, burning over 33,000 hectares, causing at least 27 casualties, and forcing thousands to evacuate. The fire has affected the 1,300-year-old Gounsa Temple along with more than 250 homes.
Thick smoke drifting over the Sea of Japan is visible in this Copernicus Sentinel-3 image acquired on 25 March 2025.
Open data provided by the Copernicus Sentinel satellites is essential to monitoring and mapping the extent and effects of wildfires around the world, informing damage assessments and supporting management operations.
