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South Korean Auto-Parts Factory Fire in Daejeon Kills 14, Dozens Injured

Hazardous sodium stores forced a cautious response that delayed entry to the burning building.

Overview

  • Officials said the blaze was extinguished by Saturday afternoon local time, with the cause still undetermined.
  • Authorities reported 59 people injured, including 25 in serious condition.
  • About 170 workers were inside when the fire erupted Friday, and those initially unaccounted for were later confirmed among the dead.
  • Firefighting was complicated by roughly 200 kilograms of stored sodium and the risk of structural collapse.
  • A nationwide mobilization sent more than 200 firefighters and a helicopter, and President Lee Jae-myung visited the site, pledged support, and urged stronger worker protections.