🔥 A devastating fire engulfed a car parts factory in Daejeon, South Korea, on Friday afternoon, leaving 53 injured and 14 unaccounted for. The blaze—now one of 2026’s worst industrial disasters—has triggered a nationwide emergency response as crews battle chemical explosion risks.
What We Know So Far
📅 The fire erupted at 1:17 PM local time in a factory located 140 km southeast of Seoul. Over 170 employees were inside when flames tore through prefabricated buildings containing 200 kg of sodium, a highly reactive metal. Survivors reported jumping from windows to escape smoke inhalation, while rescue teams faced structural collapse dangers.
The Rescue Effort
🚒 South Korea’s National Fire Agency deployed 90 fire trucks, 200 firefighters, and helicopters within an hour. Despite the mobilization, crews struggled to enter the site due to unstable structures and potential chemical blasts. One building was completely destroyed, with flames spreading to adjacent areas.
⚠️ Authorities confirmed 24 critical injuries and 29 minor cases. Families of missing workers gathered nearby as search operations continued into the night. "This is a race against time," said a fire department spokesperson.
